Import of genetically modified soybean FG72xA5547-127 with three herbicide tolerance traits

The present application (EFSA/GMO/NL/2013/120) concerns import and processing for use in feed and food of the genetically modified soybean line FG72 xA5547-127. Cultivation is not part of this application.
Soybean FG72xA5547-127 was produced by conventional crossbreeding of the genetically modified parental soybean lines FG72 and A5547-127, and expresses the hppdPfW336, 2mepsps and pat genes. As a result, soybean FG72xA5547-127 is tolerant to the active ingredients isoxaflutole, glufosinate-ammonium and glyphosate, which are commonly used in herbicides.
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 or cold resistance. Establishment of feral soybean populations has never been observed in Europe. There are no reasons to assume that the introduced traits will allow FG72 xA5547-127 soybean to establish feral populations.
Previously the parental lines were assessed, including the molecular characterisation. The applicant has updated the molecular characterisation of FG72xA5547-127. The characterisation meets the criteria of COGEM.
In conclusion, COGEM is of the opinion that import and processing of soybean line FG72xA5547-127 poses a negligible risk to the environment in the Netherlands. COGEM abstains from giving advice on the potential risks of incidental consumption since a food/feed assessment is already carried out by other organisations.