The first GM grains shipped to Europe in 1997 encountered strong opposition from consumers and environmental groups, who launched boycotts of these goods. In response to strong anti-GM sentiment among the public, European governments have created stiff regulations on the technology. In 2000, European countries growing GM crops constituted less than 1 percent of the total global GM crop area. Those growing the crops included Romania (soybeans and potatoes), Bulgaria (herbicide-tolerant corn), and small areas in Spain, Germany, and France (Bt corn).

Labeling of foods produced with GM crops has strong support in Europe. The European Commission has proposed that mandatory labeling be required if a food contains more than 1 percent of a GM ingredient. In April, 2000, the United Kingdom adopted standards requiring all food to be labeled that contains GM soy or corn. Meanwhile, the US government has warned the EU that it is considering a formal complaint to the World Trade Organization on grounds that labeling GM products is unfair discrimination against US goods and therefore a restraint of trade.

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