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The chemical group BASF has expressed optimism that within a few weeks the European Commission may approve the genetically modified “Amflora” potato to be grown in Europe. In early December, Hans Kast, Managing Director of BASF Plant Science, spoke with journalists in Brussels and stated the expectation the decision be made in any case early enough for the growing season of 2008.

Developed by BASF, Amflora possesses an improved starch profile. It contains only amylopectin instead of a mixture of amylopectin and amylase and therefore is particularly valuable for the paper and textile industry.

Since EU ministers did not reach a qualified majority on the application last July, the decision now is the responsibility of the Commission and an approval would be the first of its kind in the European Union since 1998. During the last weeks, some EU Member States have called for a review of the decision-making process.

A spokesperson for BASF Plant Science advised that there would be enough seed potatoes on stock to secure commercial cultivation. In Europe, the planting of potatoes is begun in the early spring, with precise dates depending on regional climates. However, since farmers decide on their production program usually during winter, an approval that arrives after February would be too late to influence the coming season. Moreover, in Germany, for example, the intention to grow genetically modified plants must be announced in the national register three months in advance of any actual planting.

While awaiting speedy approval for Amflora, BASF announced new field trials with two other genetically modified potatoes. The releases will take place at four locations in the German federal states of Brandenburg, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania and Saxony-Anhalt between 2008 and 2012. In one case, the modified potato is similar to Amflora but is based on a different conventional variety. The other potato line contains genes from wild potatoes found in South America. These genes make its carrier tolerant to a fungus that destroys a significant portion of the potato crop each year. Known as phytophthora, this fungus is the target of most fungicide used in potato cultivation today. In recent years, field trials with the two varieties have taken place in several European countries including Germany and the Netherlands. The new locations in the eastern states of Germany must be authorised by the Federal Office of Consumer Protection and Food Safety (BVL) and the process of mandatory public hearings has begun.

Genetically modified Bt maize MON810 may be sold again in Germany for commercial cultivation. The licensee Monsanto has received the all-clear from the competent authority, the Federal Office of Consumer Protection and Food Safety (BVL) on Thursday. In April 2007, the BVL suspended authorisation of the market placement of MON810 and asked Monsanto for a plan to monitor the environmental effects of the cultivation of insect-tolerant Bt maize. After months of negotiations, the BVL now has accepted an implementation plan submitted by Monsanto. Measures have been agreed upon that include the observation of the effects that the cultivation of MON810 has on biodiversity. This monitoring will be conducted by an existing network of public institutions, scientists and associations and will address soil life as well as species such as butterflies, bees, common birds and wild game. Last year, 2,680 hectares of MON810 were grown in Germany and Monsanto expects this area to expand significantly in the coming season.