The proposal came about as a result of a review into the decision-making process for the authorisation of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs).

The review confirmed that national governments want a greater say on the use of GMOs for animal feed and human consumption. As a result, the Commission will now allow Member States more freedom to restrict or prohibit the use of EU-authorised GMOs in food or feed on their territory.

This means that once a GMO is authorised in Europe, countries may decide on whether to opt out from allowing it to be used in their food chain.

"The Commission has listened to the concerns of many European citizens, reflected in the positions expressed by their national governments. Once adopted, today's proposal will, fully in line with the principle of subsidiarity, grant Member States a greater say as regards the use of EU- authorised GMOs in food and feed on their respective territories," said Health and Food Safety Commissioner Vytenis Andriukaitis.

This proposal will now be sent to the European Parliament and the Council.