The use of GMOs and consumers' rights in the European Union

Abstract

Most European consumers are against the use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) products. Nevertheless, the European Union (EU) does not set particular limits to GMOs intake while it is restrictive with regard to GMOs farming. As consequence nine Member States, including France, Italy and Germany, have adopted measures to forbid GMOs farming on their land. Worldwide, the EU is the main importer of GMOs products for feeds and this is not consistent with the choice made by these countries. This could result in any reduction in the appreciation of consumers towards quality products and could jeopardise the economic value of the entire quality product section. As consequence, the voluntary certification could represent an effective answer to overcome the normative ambiguities and to create new market opportunities, for the benefit of both producers and consumers.