Biotech Updates

Updates Regarding Clearfield 131 Long-Grain Rice Seed

March 16, 2007

The presence of trace levels of unauthorized genetic material in Clearfield 131 (CL131) rice seed was confirmed by a separate test by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). Based on these test results, further distribution or planting of 2005, 2006, or 2007 registered or certified CL131 seed is prohibited.

APHIS is issuing emergency action notifications (EANs) to distributors of 2005, 2006, or 2007 registered or certified CL131 rice seed to prevent further distribution and planting of the seed. Producers who have already planted CL131 seed this season prior to this announcement may consider treating with an herbicide or mechanically destroying the plants after emergence. A different variety of rice or a broadleaf crop such as soybeans can then be planted in its place.

To read more: http://www.aphis.usda.gov/newsroom/content/2007/03/CL131update3-9-07.shtml.