According to both Hungarian and EU legislation, the precautionary principle must be taken into consideration to a maximum level during the authorization procedure of genetically modified organisms and during the precise assessment of possible risks and effects, in order to protect human health and the environment.
The aim of risk assessment is to define and evaluate the possible direct or indirect, immediate or delayed harmful effects of GMOs, and to evaluate the long-term effects of GMOs on the environment and human health. Risk assessment takes into consideration how the GM product was produced and what new gene combination it contains, in addition to which it examines the risks (e.g.: if it contains toxic or allergenic proteins) and the possibility of gene flow (e.g.: if antibiotic resistant genes can be transferred to other organisms). The result and final conclusion of the risk assessment study is the basis for the final decision on GMO products, for risk management following authorization, and for other measures. According to EU legislation, a GMO may only be authorised if it has been proven to be suitable and safe with regard to both health and the environment.
