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Genetic modification (GM) regulation
These pages outline how we regulate GMO releases in line with international legislation. In all Member States of the European Union including the UK there has been strict legislation controlling the deliberate release into the environment of GMOs since 1990. This regime now has essentially two objectives:
- To protect human health and the environment; and
- To ensure consumer choice.
The legislation has evolved over this period to the position today where almost all assessments of GM products will be approved via the GM Food and Feed Regulations which came into effect in April 2004. The Food Standards Agency lead in the UK on these regulations.
General information and guidance
- Regulatory Process outlines the relevant legislation currently in force
- Fees and charges for GM applications
- Deliberate Release of GMOs: A Guide - guidance regarding Directive 2001/18/EC
- Enforcement of GM Regulations
Details of applications and releases
Our Applications & Releases pages have details of applications to release GMOs and consents to release GMOs. The public can comment on applications and view UK opinions.
Links to legislation
UK
- Genetically Modified (Deliberate Release) Regulations 2002
- Genetically Modified (Contained Use) Regulations 2000
- Environmental Protection Act 1990
EU
- EU Directive 2001/18/EC (Deliberate Release)
- EU Directive 98/81/EC (Contained Use)
- Food and Feed Regulation 1829/2003
- Traceability and labelling regulation 1830/2003
- Transboundary Movement Regulation 1946/2003
Page published 31 October 2003
Page last modified
30 December, 2009