What Role for GM Technology in the Future Competitiveness of European Agri-Food Sector?
The COST Exploratory Workshop, held in parallel with the First European Food Congress, provided an overview on international and EU developments in the use of GM technology in the agri-food sector. The European Cooperation in Science and Technology (COST) gathered leading scientists, representatives from industry associations and experts from independent European agencies to talk about/discuss the impact of GM technology on the agri-food sector. GM technology employs genetic engineering techniques to modify the genetic material of organisms. Today, GM technology may reduce the risk of crop losses due to disease, pests and spoilage. It enhances the nutritional value of food but also decreases the use of pesticide and ground water contamination. The meeting participants assessed the EU status and strategy in relation to GM technology. They identified networking activities that will strengthen the EU agri-food sector and prevent it from losing its competitiveness in the global market. Des
