Last week, we scored another point in the fight to stay GMO-free: in a case against the European Commission the European Court of Justice ruled in favor of Hungary. The decision annuls previous decrees by the Commission that allowed genetically modified Amflora potatoes to enter the European market. The Court ruled that the European Commission did not act according to its procedural responsibilities, and Hungary and other member states of the EU are free to enforce their ban on the product. The Hungarian side was supported by other member states, such as Austria, France, Luxembourg and Poland.

We see healthy, high quality agriculture as a strategic issue, so needless to say we’re pleased with the decision. Although Amflora potatoes are grown for use as feed for livestock, according to many critics of GMO, it could also easily infect the potatoes grown for human consumption. Also, EU member states have the capacity to mass produce GMO-free agricultural products for both animal and human consumption, so Hungary sees no need to enter the GMO business. Not just because genetically modified products are a food safety concern for many, but also because of Hungary’s position in the international agriculture markets. We have a great climate well suited for many crops but less territory, so our strategy must favor quantity over quality.

There are many good reasons to limit the spread of genetically modified seeds, and last week’s decision from the European Court reinforces our position: Hungarian agriculture will remain GMO-free.

Source: A Blog About Hungary

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