Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) are organisms, such as plants, animals and microorganisms whose genetic characteristics have been altered in a way that does not occur naturally by mating and/or natural recombination.

Food and feed which contain, consist of or are produced from GMOs are called genetically modified (GM) food or feed.

EU legislation on GMOs aims to ensure that GMOs and GMO-derived products that are produced or marketed within the EU meet the highest safety standards whilst ensuring the effective functioning of the internal market.

The FSAI is the competent authority for the implementation of legislation governing GM food while the Department of Health (DoH) is responsible for policy matters. As competent authority, the FSAI ensures that only EU-authorised GM foods are allowed on the market and that they are labelled appropriately.