The European Union is one step closer to loosening regulations on genetically modified vines and plants.
Last week, the Committee of Permanent Representatives of the EU member states accepted a proposal put forward by the Polish presidency to accelerate the approval process for new vine and plant breeding techniques (NGT). The proposal was backed by a majority of conservative, liberal, and right-wing representatives, marking a significant shift in EU agricultural policy.
A More Flexible Approach to Genetic Modification
The proposed reform introduces two categories for genetically modified vines and plants:
- Mildly Modified Varieties – These plants have up to 20 genetic modifications compared to their original counterparts and will be treated similarly to conventional varieties.
- Extensively Modified Varieties – These plants have more than 20 genetic changes and will remain subject to stricter regulations.
One of the most controversial aspects of the new approach is the labeling requirement. Under the EU Commission’s plan, only the seeds of the first-category genetically modified plants will require labeling. However, food products derived from these plants will not have to disclose their genetically modified status, a move that has sparked backlash from consumer advocates.
Germany Opposes the Reform
Germany stood against the proposal, with Federal Minister of Agriculture Cem Özdemir voicing strong concerns about transparency and consumer choice. “Consumers must be able to decide for themselves what they eat. Farmers and companies in the food industry have long successfully operated without genetic engineering. I have always advocated that this remains possible in the future,” Özdemir stated.
Despite Germany’s opposition, the proposal still needs final approval from EU member states. However, with European elections approaching in the summer, reaching an agreement before then appears unlikely.
Industry and Environmental Groups Raise Concerns
The deregulation plan has drawn criticism from over 200 environmental and organic farming organizations, including Bioland, Greenpeace, and Demeter. Critics argue that relaxing genetic modification rules could threaten biodiversity, consumer rights, and small-scale farmers. One major concern is the patent issue—if a handful of large corporations control the patents on genetically modified plants, they could dominate the food supply.
Jörg Hütter, political spokesperson for Demeter, warned: “With this decision, Europe is increasingly turning away from its fundamental principles of precaution and food safety.”
Potential Benefits for Winemakers
Supporters of the reform argue that new genomic techniques can help vines adapt to climate change, resist disease, and require fewer pesticides. Given the increasing pressure on European vineyards due to rising temperatures and unpredictable weather patterns, genetically modified vines could play a key role in securing the future of viticulture.
While renowned scientists suggest that health risks from these modifications are minimal, the debate over consumer transparency and corporate control continues. As the discussion unfolds, wine producers, environmental groups, and policymakers will need to navigate a complex landscape of scientific innovation, consumer trust, and market competition.
Source: Wein.Plus