91997E2136

WRITTEN QUESTION E-2136/97 by Hiltrud Breyer (V) to the Council (24 June 1997)

Subject: Novel food regulation No 258/97 - Genetically produced enzymes and additives

Are there plans for activities for the European Union aimed at plugging the existing legislative gaps for the authorization of enzymes or additives produced with the aid of genetically modified micro-organisms which are not covered by either the novel food regulation or the additives regulation?

Answer (20 October 1997)

Article 2 of Regulation No 258/97 concerning novel foods and novel food ingredients stipulates that food additives, flavourings for use in foodstuffs and extraction solvents used in the production of foodstuffs are not covered by the Regulation. However, these exclusions will only apply for so long as the safety laid down in the basic Directive correspond to the safety level of the Regulation concerning novel foods and novel food ingredients.

The Honourable Member should also note that the Commission has stated that it confirms that should it appear, in the light of experience, that there are gaps in the system of protection of public health provided for by the existing legal framework, in particular in respect of processing aids, it will formulate appropriate proposals in order to fill those gaps (OJ L 43, 14.2.1997, p. 7). The date the Council has received no such proposal.