Import and processing of the genetically modified soybean line MON87705xMON89788

The present application (EFSA/GMO/NL/2011/100) concerns import and processing for use in feed and food of the genetically modified soybean line MON87705 × MON89788. Cultivation is not part of this application. Soybean line MON87705 × MON89788 line contains a FAD2-1A/FATB1-A suppression cassette resulting in an altered fatty-acid profile of the soybean seeds. Additionally, the line expresses two cp4 epsps genes conferring tolerance to glyphosate containing herbicides. MON87705 × MON89788 was produced by means of conventional breeding with the two genetically modified parental soybean lines. Previously, COGEM issued positive opinions on the import and processing of both parental lines.

In Europe, there are no wild relatives of soybean and therefore, hybridisation with other species is not possible. Soybean does not possess any of the attributes commonly associated with problematic weeds such as seed shattering, dormancy and cold resistance. Establishment of feral
soybean populations has never been observed in Europe. In addition, soybean volunteers are rarely observed throughout the world and do not effectively compete with other cultivated plants, weeds or primary colonisers.

COGEM considers the appended General Surveillance plan adequate for import of MON87705 × MON 89788. However, the GS plan could be improved on a number of points. In view of the above, COGEM is of the opinion that incidental spillage of MON87705 × MON89788 poses a negligible risk to the environment. Since 2008, COGEM abstains from giving advice on the potential risks of incidental consumption in case a food/feed assessment is already carried out by other organisations. COGEM considers the environmental risks associated with import and processing of soybean line MON87705 × MON89788 to be negligible.