Biotech Updates

J.R. Simplot Petitions for GM Potato Deregulation

May 15, 2013

J.R. Simplot Company submitted a petition to U.S. authorities to deregulate biotech potatoes known as Innate. This potato variety have been genetically engineered to decrease production of acrylamide, a potential carcinogen, and reduce black spot bruising. The petition claims that the potatoes are unlikely to pose a plant pest risk and thus should not be a regulated article under Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) regulations. APHIS published the petition on the Federal Register for public comment within 60 days since its publication date (May 3, 2013).

Read the petition at http://www.aphis.usda.gov/newsroom/2013/04/pdf/fr_ge_potato.pdf.