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Modified Corn Variety Controls Moths and Beetles
Release Date: 11/04/2003
Contact Information:
Press Advisory
David Deegan 617-918-1017 / deegan.dave@epa.gov
(11/04/03) Following a thorough evaluation, a new Monsanto corn variety has been approved for use. The product, called YieldGard Plus, is the first genetically engineered crop that has the ability to control two different insect groups. The corn produces two different Bacillus thuringiensis (or Bt) proteins, enabling it to protect from leaf and stalk damage caused by insects such as the European corn borer (a moth), and from root damage caused by the corn rootworm (a beetle). EPA evaluates these types of crops, called plant incorporated-protectants under the Agency’s pesticide regulatory authorities. This new variety of corn was produced by traditional breeding of previously-approved plant incorporated-protectants. The previous varieties are “MON 810” (YieldGard) and “MON 863” (YieldGard Rootworm), and the associated Bt proteins are Cry3Bb1 and Cry1Ab. EPA carefully evaluated data regarding this new “stacked” product, and considered the public comments submitted during its review process in reaching a decision about this registration. More information on EPA’s biotechnology regulatory program can be found at: https://www.epa.gov/pesticides/biopesticides .
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