The EU is likely to approve a genetically modified maize variety for cultivation.
The approval will come after years have passed since its previous sanction of another type of maize, the only GM crop grown in the EU.
It also comes in the face of strong opposition among the public and widespread fear of potential human and animal health risks posed by GM crops.
The European Commission says the US-developed maize variety, called Pioneer 1507, is safe. It has been developed in a lab by US biotech giant Dupont-Pioneer.
Most EU governments voted against it, but the vote tally was still not enough to block it. Under EU rules, the Commission can now authorise it.
But, even if permitted, countries may still ban its cultivation on their own soil under EU regulations.
Pioneer 1507 produces a pesticide toxin and is resistant to the weedkiller glufosinate ammonium. Greenpeace claims this toxin harms butterflies and moths.
Voting in favour of introducing the GM crop were the UK, Spain, Sweden and Finland amongst others. The 19 against included France, Italy, the Netherlands, Austria and Poland.
There were four abstentions, but that of Germany had the greatest impact as it has the biggest voting weight.
Dupont-Pioneer took the Commission to court in 2007 over the authorisation of Pioneer 1507, accusing it of “failure to act”.
Presently, only the GM maize MON 810, produced by Monsanto, is cultivated in the EU. Its biggest grower is Spain which has 287,400 acres under cultivation. This amounts to 1.35% of the EU’s total maize-growing area.
GM crops are widely cultivated in the US and Asia.
