Tougher new rules on controlling genetically modified (GM) goods in the European Union will come into force later this month, paving the way for the bloc to reopen its markets to the controversial products.
Farmers in most of the EU have been effectively banned from growing or selling most of the GM crops commonly used in the United States, amid consumer fears that the foods could pose health or environmental risks.
The new laws upgrade existing legislation on crops and foods which have been genetically altered for a variety of reasons, such as increasing their resistance to insect pests.
Supporters of the technology say it offers massive benefits in terms of increased yields and nutritional value, but critics say scientists are toying with nature and have raised the spectre of genetically enhanced super-weeds and health threats.
The new rules could pave the way for the EU to lift an unofficial moratorium on authorising new GM products, in place since June 1999 when a large minority of EU states said they would block any new permits, pending tougher regulations.