Biotech Updates

Defra Allows Field Trial of GM Camelina in Rothamsted

April 27, 2016

The Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) allowed Rothamsted Research to conduct field trial of genetically modified (GM) camelina plants in the Rothamsted Farm in 2016 to 2017. The field trials will be conducted to evaluate the amount of omega-3 long chain polysaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFAs) in the camelina seeds. Omega-3 LC-PUFAs exhibit benefits to human health including protection against coronary heart diseases. The research team has also developed camelina plants that accumulate astaxanthin, a pigment that is commonly used as a feed additive in aquaculture. The field trial will also assess the performance of this new trait.

Read the news release from Rothamsted Research.