Import and processing of maize MON89034xMON88017

The present application by Monsanto Europe S.A. (file EFSA/GMO/NL/2007/39) ‘Import and processing of MON89034xMON88017’, concerns the import and processing for use in feed and food of a genetically modified maize line. Cultivation is not part of this application.
The hybrid maize line MON89034xMON88017 contains the genes cry1A.105, cry2Ab2 and cry3Bb1, conferring resistance to certain insects. In addition, this maize line contains the cp4 epsps gene, resulting in tolerance to glyphosate containing herbicides.
Previously, COGEM issued a positive advice on the import and processing of maize line MON88017. But, COGEM is also of the opinion that molecular data provided for parental maize line MON89034 are incomplete. Therefore, COGEM could not issue a positive advice on maize lines MON89034 and MON89034xNK603.
During the long domestication process, maize has lost its ability to survive in the wild. In the Netherlands, the appearance of maize volunteers is rare and establishment of volunteers in the wild has never been reported. There are no reasons to assume that the traits introduced will increase the potential of maize to establish feral populations. The genes introduced in MON89034xMON88017 cannot spread to closely related species since wild relatives of maize are not present in Europe.
In view of the above, COGEM is of the opinion that incidental spillage of MON89034xMON88017 most likely poses negligible risks to man and the environment. However, because of the incomplete molecular analysis of MON89034, COGEM cannot advice positively on import and processing of maize line MON89034xMON88017.
In addition, COGEM is of the opinion that the applicant should describe in more detail how the general surveillance plan will be organized and which organizations are involved. Furthermore, the applicant should ensure that direct and indirect effects are reported annually.