European Commission OK's genetically modified corn

The European Commission today backed the plans for growing genetically modified corn despite the opposition from environmental groups.

Wednesday's approval now sends the plans to approve Maize 1507 to the EU's 28 member nations for consideration and could lead to a decision on the issue as soon as next month, AP reports.

The EU has strict guidelines on authorizing and informing consumers about foods containing GMOs, while EU member states have sharply diverging views on the cultivation of Genetically Modified Organisms.

The U.S. company Pioneer applied to cultivate Maize 1507 in 2001.