The European Union head office gave its clearance Monday for the import of a genetically modified corn product made by U.S.-based Monsanto Co. for use in animal feed, AP reported. The European Commission gave Monsanto a 10-year license to import the corn variety, called MON 863, but said the clearance did not include the use of the product for cultivation of the crop, which is already grown in the United States, or for human consumption. The Commission cleared the import after the EU's 25 member states failed to take a decision on MON 863 in June. Under new EU rules, the Commission has last-say authority to decide on clearing new biotech crops if member states reach a stalemate. The new product, which is meant to resist corn rootworms, was ruled safe by the European Food Safety Agency last year. Monsanto has also applied to have MON 863 approved for use in food for human consumption. EU governments are expected to vote on this additional application in September. --mor 1430 Local Time 1130 GMT
