Everywhere in the world, genetically modified (GM) plants need to be authorized. In Europe, the relevant legislation enacted by the member states and passed with a large majority in the European Parliament is particularly strict.

GM plants as such or GM plants processed as food or feed products may only be placed on the market after having successfully passed a multi-step authorisation process. The authorisation is only given provided the GM product is proven to be as safe as a comparable conventional product. The applicant has to carry out comprehensive tests and trials and has to present the data for examination and the necessary safety evaluation. 

Apart from safety, the principle of consumers' choice applies. This means that the consumer, but also farmers and food processors have the right to choose between products with or without genetic engineering. In order to enable this choice, comprehensive labelling requirements apply to all products produced from GM plants. Moreover, the cultivation of GM crops is subject to special rules, as are the storage, transport and processing of the end products. This is to avoid any unintended mixing.

An authorisation under EU genetic engineering legislation is granted for 10 years and is valid in all EU member states. The incumbent authority is the European Food and Safety Agency (EFSA). EFSA is supported in its scientific safety evaluation by a group of independent experts and the national authorities in charge.