The European Union has ruled honey that contains pollen from genetically modified corn has to be labeled as GM and undergo testing before being sold.
Those opposed to GM foods are applauding the decision, hoping the legislation will cause the EU to tighten already-strict rules against genetically modified food products.
Cereals using honey from countries that already use GM crops like China and Argentina might be affected and blocked for import.
Beekeepers who were unknowingly affected by the pollen might have grounds to receive compensation after the ruling.
EU consumer spokesperson Frédéric Vincent stressed the honey is safe to eat.
"The contamination is done by the bees themselves. We can't put GPS tracking on the bees," he says.
Read More:
- EU bans GM-contaminated honey from general sale (The Guardian)
- Sticky future for honey imports to EU after GM ruling (AFP)