The New York Times is reporting talks between the United States and European Union over opening up Europe to genetically modified foods broke down in Geneva yesterday.

The Times says American officials said they would soon request the World Trade Organization convene a panel to review their case in an effort to end a ban that farm groups say is depriving agricultural businesses of hundreds of billions of dollars a year.

The Times goes on to say the Bush administration called Europe’s policy illegal, saying scientific research has shown genetically altered crops to be safe.

The European Union, “denies choices to European consumers.” So said Richard Mills, a spokesperson for the United States trade representative, Robert Zoellick.

European officials say the long-term effects of altered food remain uncertain. They say they’re disappointed by the administration’s publicizing the dispute.