National Bio-safety Authority has granted permits to import products that may contain genetically modified organisms to three local companies.

In a statement issued to Money FM News, Authority Public Relations Officer Sandra Lombe said this followed a decision made during the Board meeting that resolved to give permits to L and A logistics and Gola manufacturers after a risk assessment was conducted by the Scientific Advisory Committee on the two companies applications to import products made from genetically modified organisms.

Ms Lombe said the new import permits are valid for five years, and L and A logistics company will bring in soups, spices, various brands of spreads, salad dressing, various brands of Rusks and dog food while Gola manufacturers limited will bring in maize grit to be used in making snacks.

“The two new permits bring the total number of import permits granted by the Authority this year to seven” She said.

Ms Lombe adds that the Authority has also renewed a total of 23 permits to place on the market products which may contain GMOs.

“From 2016 to date the NBA has granted 49 permits for import and placing on the market  processed food and feed products, four research permits and issued four Non- GM clearance certificates for export” She said .
Authority has observed that compliance levels were generally impressive for distributors, importers and retailers dealing in products that may contain GMOs.