stacked GM event

Description:

The creation of a genetically modified organism (GMO) with more than one genetic modification. This can be done by (a) cross-breeding two GMOs with each having one or more pre-existing modifications (b) carrying out a second genetic modification in an existing GMO or (c) introducing multiple genes or traits at once

Context:

EFSA assesses stacked GM events to make sure combining traits does not create new safety concerns. We evaluate whether the stacked plant behaves as expected, checking for potential changes in toxicity, allergenicity, nutrition, or interactions between the traits. Their scientific opinions help regulators decide if the stacked GM plant is safe for food, feed, and the environment.

EFSA conducts scientific risk assessments of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) to evaluate their safety for human and animal health and the environment. EFSA assesses applications for GMOs before they can be authorised for use as or in food, feed, or for cultivation, and its scientific opinions are used by the risk managers to make decisions on their authorization. EFSA work covers genetically modified (GM) plants, GM microorganisms, and GM animals and includes evaluating new applications for market authorization, developing comprehensive risk assessment guidelines, and providing scientific advice on specific topics like environmental monitoring and new genomic techniques.