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Genetic engineering
Check carefully, approve safely.
The release of genetically modified organisms (GMO) for scientific trials needs to be approved by the BVL. If GMO are to be cultivated commercially, the BVL will provide a statement in the Community approval process of the EU. Furthermore, the BVL manages the international information exchange on GMO in the Biosafety Clearing House for Germany. The BVL hosts the secretary of the Central Committee on Biological Safety (ZKBS). The ZKBS advises the Federal Government and the Federal States in safety-relevant questions on genetic engineering.
Many topics, one goal
Labelling and traceability
GMO as well as all food and feed that consist of or contains GMO or is produced from GMO must be labelled.
GMO location register
All areas of land upon which GMOs are cultivated or released in Germany are entered onto the GMO location register. Along with other information, details of the position and the size of the land are presented, along with a map.
Monitoring
Monitoring must be carried out following authorisation for the placing on the market of a GMO in order to determine the possible effects of this GMO on the environment.
Inspection and control
In Germany, the different areas of application of genetic engineering are inspected and controlled by the competent authorities of the Federal States (Länder).