Scientific Opinion on the application (EFSA-GMO-BE-2012-110) for the placing on the market of tissue-selective herbicide-tolerant genetically modified maize MON 87427 for food and feed uses, import and processing under Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 from Monsanto

Maize MON 87427 was developed by Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated transformation to express the CP4 5-enolpyruvyl-shikimate-3-phosphate synthase (EPSPS) protein, in all tissues except for the male reproductive tissues, conferring tissue-selective tolerance to glyphosate. The molecular characterisation of maize MON 87427 did not give rise to safety issues. Agronomic and phenotypic characteristics as well as compositional data of maize MON 87427 did not raise food/feed and environmental safety concerns. No differences in the compositional data requiring further safety assessment were identified. There were no concerns regarding the potential toxicity and allergenicity of the newly expressed CP4 EPSPS protein. The nutritional value of maize MON 87427 is not expected to differ from that of non-genetically modified (GM) maize varieties. There are no indications of an increased likelihood of establishment or spread of feral maize plants. Given its intended use in food and feed, interactions with the biotic and abiotic environment were not considered an issue. Risks associated with an unlikely, but theoretically possible, horizontal gene transfer from maize MON 87427 to bacteria have not been identified. The monitoring plan and reporting intervals are in line with the scope of the application for maize MON 87427. In conclusion, the EFSA Panel on Genetically Modified Organisms considers that the information available for maize MON 87427 addresses the scientific comments raised by Member States and that the maize MON 87427, as described in this application, is as safe as its conventional counterpart and non-GM reference varieties with respect to potential effects on human and animal health and the environment in the context of the scope of the application.