Morocco Confirms Watermelon Seeds Not Genetically Modified, Dispelling GMO Rumors

Through this clarification, the Office specified that the import of the different plant species is subject to prior authorization. It is also required that importers of plant varieties present, upon import, a declaration issued by the breeder of the country of origin, certifying that they are not genetically modified, explained the ONSSA in its press release.

On the national market, continues the office, the plant variety to be marketed must be previously registered in the Official Catalog of cultivable varieties in Morocco after having met all the required conditions, including a declaration certifying that the variety is not genetically modified.

This variety, even if it is registered in the Official Catalog of cultivable varieties in Morocco, will have to be subject to experiments by the competent services of the ONSSA to certify its authenticity, profitability and suitability to the pedoclimatic conditions of Morocco, insists the same source.

Seeking to reassure the public opinion panicked by the rumor, the ONSSA reaffirmed that the watermelons grown in the Zagora region, known for its favorable climate for early watermelon production, are not from genetically modified plant seeds (GMOs).