On 19 September, MEPs voted in favour of a resolution stating that plants obtained through conventional breeding processes, such as crossing and selection, must not become patentable.

They fear that allowing natural plant varieties to be patented would concentrate plant breeding material in the hands of a few powerful multinational companies. The resulting loss of genetic variety could in turn endanger food security and raise food prices.

Background

Behind the controversy are two cases where the European Patent Office (EPO) granted patents to a reduced water content wrinkly tomato and a broccoli variety, which could reduce the risk of getting cancer. These plants were created through crossing and selection with no genetic manipulation.

After a Parliament resolution in 2015 and Commission intervention in 2016, the cases are being discussed in EPO’s final appellate instance. The deadline for submitting written statements is 1 October.