So far it has been practically impossible in Europe to bring genetically modified plants onto the market. The bureaucracy was high, and researchers often wasted years just filling out applications. In addition, each field where outdoor varieties were tested had to be marked. Because opponents of genetic engineering repeatedly devastated these fields, soon nobody dared to do it anymore. The scientists could only do research in the laboratory. A lot of people preferred to go straight to the USA.

This could change now. But there is resistance to the EU Commission’s proposal. Mainly from Germany.

Greenpeace has dug up the old monster corn again, with evil alien eyes and a jagged black throat. “Incredible: the EU Commission wants to deregulate genetic engineering!” wrote the activists.

Since no health risk associated with genetic engineering has ever been identified in thirty years, opponents usually talk about patent issues or the restructuring of agriculture. They fear that new varieties could be used as an excuse to stick with destructive monocultures. Or they conjure up scenarios in which the methods could be misused for completely different purposes. Just like you can cut paper with scissors, but you can also gouge out the eyes of others.

[Editor’s note: This article was originally published in German and has been translated and edited for clarity.]

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