Genetically modified plant–derived feed materials: results of official monitoring in Poland

Abstract

Introduction: Highly efficient animal rearing would be impossible without the use of high-protein feed. In Europe the main source of feed protein has become soybean meal imported from South America, where the majority of it is genetically modified. The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of genetically modified (GM) plant material in feed on the Polish market. Material and Methods: The study material consisted of feed materials and compound feed samples collected as part of the Official Feed Control Plan in 2018–2024. Methods recommended for use in official testing by the European Union Reference Laboratory for Genetically Modified Food and Feed were used to identify GM organism (GMO) presence. Results: Between 2018 and 2024, 171 (53.9%) positive samples were identified, all with GM soybean presence. No GM maize or GM rapeseed was identified. The majority of positive samples contained three GM soybean varieties: MON 40-3-2, MON 89788 and MON 87701. The results from samples taken at the eastern Polish border varied from one survey year to the next, revealing GMO presence ranging from 0% to 80%, and the entirety of the GMO content to be soybean. Conclusion: The high-protein soybean meal in poultry and pig farming is in part derived from GM soybeans grown in third countries. Other feed crops like maize and rapeseed are GMO-free or contaminated with GMOs only at low levels.