Biotech: ENVI/SANT committee's position on specific requirements for genetically modified micro-organisms

The Environment and Health committees of the European Parliament approved a position on genetically modified micro-organisms (GMMs), by 54 votes to 18 with 16 abstentions, the Parliament announced on 10 November 2026. The position backs specific requirements for GMMs while keeping safety and ethics standards in place. The full Parliament will vote on it at an upcoming plenary session.

According to the Parliament, the legislation gives GMMs (bacteria, algae, fungi) their own framework, with adapted approval procedures, to strengthen the EU biotechnology sector. The Commission’s proposal adds GMM-specific rules to EU GMO legislation, outside food and feed, with unlimited authorisations from the outset and lighter monitoring for low-risk GMMs.

MEPs back the objective of promoting research and…