This timing makes the Summit a key opportunity for actors across the food and feed value chains to anticipate the implications of the new law and prepare for what comes next.
Preparing Non-GMO value chains for the future
Two sessions in particular will provide valuable insights for stakeholders navigating a potential post-deregulation environment. The first focuses on how Non-GMO value chains can continue to exclude New GMOs. Kerstin Geißler, Head of Quality Assurance at VLOG - Association Food without Genetic Engineering (Germany) - will present VLOG’s new concept for excluding New GMOs under a future deregulation scenario.
VLOG manages the “Ohne Gentechnik” (Non-GMO) label in Germany, where its use has become widespread. In sectors such as dairy, poultry meat and eggs the label has become very successful. Today, around 16,000 products carry the seal, making VLOG one of the leading organisations developing practical approaches to maintaining Non-GMO supply chains.
A new approach to excluding New GMOs
Kerstin Geißler’s presentation will explore how existing Non-GMO standards could be adapted to address the presence of New GMOs in global markets. The proposed approach focuses on strengthening risk assessment for feed and food, with particular attention to origin, sourcing patterns and international trade routes. Additional risk-based safeguards throughout production and supply chains would allow operators to respond flexibly to the local or global approval status of different New GMO varieties.
For food and feed producers seeking to continue operating within Non-GMO standards, this session will provide important insights into practical implementation.
Kerstin Geißler comments: “In the scenario where the EU deregulates New GMOs, the challenge will be maintaining reliable Non-GMO supply chains in a more complex environment. Our work focuses on developing practical, risk-based tools that allow operators to continue delivering credible Non-GMO products for consumers.”
What do consumers expect?
Complementing the discussion on standards, the Summit will also hear new research on consumer attitudes towards Non-GMO labelling. In his presentation, “Under new legislation – exploring future potential for Non-GMO labelling”, Prof. Dr. Holger Buxel will present the results of a new survey conducted among German consumers in the weeks leading up to the Summit.
The study, carried out in cooperation with VLOG, explores how consumers view Non-GMO labelling and its importance in purchasing decisions, and how these views might evolve under the proposed EU legislation on New GMOs.
The growing importance of Non-GMO labelling
The results will be particularly relevant given the probable deregulation of New GMOs. Currently, there is mandatory labelling for GMOs but most New GMOs (so-called NGT1 plants) would (if deregulated) no longer require GMO labelling. Voluntary Non-GMO labelling would, therefore, become even more important in helping consumers identify products that meet their expectations.
The survey should provide interesting findings into future demand for Non-GMO labelling across different food categories where New GMOs may become present, including plant-based products as well as many basic products like bread, potatoes and other vegetables.
Prof. Dr. Buxel comments: "This survey amongst German consumers should provide valuable insights in regard to the labelling of New GMOs in the future. It is likely to give indications, for example, on whether extending Non-GMO labelling from animal products into plant-based products would be a welcome move for shoppers."
Join us in Frankfurt
The Non-GMO Summit 2026 will bring together stakeholders from across the food and feed sectors, standard owners, market analysts, and researchers to discuss the future of Non-GMO value chains in Europe.
Co-organised by ENGA, VLOG and ARGE Gentechnik-frei together with Donau Soja and ProTerra, the Summit offers a unique platform to exchange knowledge, explore solutions and prepare for the evolving regulatory landscape.
Frankfurt, 13 May 2026
Registrations are open: https://www.nongmosummit.com/
We encourage all stakeholders interested in the future of Non GMO production, labelling and supply chains to secure their place.