Royal FloraHolland halts supply of genetically modified petunias

Royal FloraHolland is adopting the RIKILT findings and preventing the trade in modified orange petunia varieties by blocking the VBN codes.

In the Netherlands, research conducted by RIKILT has found that there are a number of genetically modified orange petunia varieties available. This study was commissioned by the Human Environment and Transport Inspectorate.

In Europe, it is forbidden to grow and market genetically modified varieties unless permission to do so has been granted. The petunia varieties that have been identified so far as carrying the genetically modified orange gene are:

Viva Orange VBN product code 118676
Viva Fire VBN product code 110932
Potunia Plus Papaya VBN product code 113269

The following varieties do not have a VBN product code, but can be found on the markets in the Netherlands, Finland or Germany under the following names:

Pegasus orange
Pegasus Table Orange
Pegasus Orange morn
Bingo Mandarin
Bingo Orange
Go!Tunia Orange
Salmon Ray
Viva orange vein
African Sunset
Sanguna Salmon

Based on the outcomes of the above-mentioned research, Royal FloraHolland has decided not to allow the supply of these varieties. To stop the supply to the marketplaces, they are taking the following measures:

The VBN product codes of the products in question can no longer be used.
They urgently ask suppliers of the listed varieties not to supply them, in whatever sales channel, so as not to cause trouble for chain partners.
They shall contact growers supplying genetically modified petunia varieties to one of the Royal FloraHolland locations, and ask them to remove the supplied product and stop supplying it.
Extra inspections will be conducted in the supply processes to search for products of the genetically modified varieties.

Source: Royal FloraHolland