USDA Seeks Comment on Oleic Acid Soybean Deregulation

The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is seeking public comment on a petition submitted by Pioneer Hi-Bred International to deregulate a genetically modified soybean variety that contains higher levels of oleic acid, a monounsaturated omega-9 fatty acid commonly found in olive oil. APHIS has regulated the soybean through its notification and permitting process since 2002.

If APHIS grants the petition for deregulation, the GM soybean and its progeny can be planted freely without the requirement of permits. APHIS said that scientific evidence indicates that there are unlikely to be any environmental, human health or food safety concerns associated with the GM soybean. Pioneer has also submitted documents to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). FDA concluded its review and had no further questions regarding the safety of the GM soybean.

For more information, read http://www.aphis.usda.gov/newsroom/content/2009/09/gesoybea.shtml