While Switzerland has always completely avoided the cultivation and import of genetically modified soya, the global cultivation of genetically modified (GMO) soya is increasing. It is estimated that almost 80% of the soya cultivated worldwide is genetically modified (WWF Germany, 2023). In 2019, 94%, 97% and 100% GMO soya was grown in the three largest producing countries, the USA, Brazil and Argentina respectively. GMO-free soya imported into Switzerland is therefore increasingly coming from Europe.

In Switzerland, genetically modified feed must be declared in accordance with the 1999 Feed Regulation. The various label programmes in Switzerland (IP-Suisse, Naturafarm, Bio Suisse/Knospe, Suisse Garantie, QM Schweizer Fleisch, Mutterkuh, and others) require feeding without genetically modified feed. Accordingly, all imported soya products must come from GMO-free cultivation. Unintentional mixtures with GMOs are permitted under Swiss legislation, provided they do not exceed the defined limits of max. 0.9% contamination for authorised GMOs.