Genetic Engineering and Organic Farming

There is a world wide consensus among organic farmers not to use genetically engineered organism (GMO). Initially implemented through the guidelines of organic farming associations, this rule has now gained accession to consumer protection legislation in the USA, Japan and the European Union. EURegulation 2092/91/EEC on Organic Agriculture which is equal in rank to national statutory law in all member states of the European Union, prohibits the use of GMO by organic farmers. At the same time EU law permits under certain conditions the market introduction of GMO for use in agricultural production. In  order to resolve any resulting conflicts between organic and GMO-basedagriculture this law must provide a way of reconciliating opposing interests and maintaining peace between the two competing forms of agriculture.