Controversial GM maize study flawed, says food agency

The European Food Safety Authority (Efsa) has found that the results of a study calling into question the safety of a type of GM maize are inconclusive on the basis of shortcomings in the study’s design and analysis.

In its review of the paper, Efsa cited a number of concerns about the research, including that it had insufficient controls, used too few animals and questionable statistical analysis. Per Bergman, who led Efsa’s work, said the study could be improved by having clear objectives and the correct design and methodology. “Without these elements a study is unlikely to be reliable and valid,” he said.