9 March 2006
The United States of America (USA) recently discovered the unintentional
presence of genetically modified Bt10 maize in the breeding lines of
genetically modified Bt11 maize. Since only Bt11 has been approved for
commercial use in South Africa, the Department of Agriculture undertook an
investigation to determine whether any Bt10 maize was present in the
country.
In South Africa all activities with genetically modified organisms are
regulated under the Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO) Act, 1997 (Act 15 of
1997). In accordance with the provisions of this Act, Bt11 maize, owned by
Syngenta, was approved for commercial use in South Africa in 2003. Prior to its
approval, this maize was thoroughly evaluated with regard to its potential
impact on the environment, human and animal health.
From an initial assessment of available information, the Department of
Agriculture was confident that the probability of Bt10 having entered the
country was extremely low. To confirm this, laboratory testing was performed on
representative samples from Bt11 producing areas. Sampling was conducted in
accordance with the provisions of the GMO Act and tests performed by an
independent laboratory. All samples tested negative for the presence of Bt10
maize.
The negative test results confirm the effectiveness of South Africaâs bio
safety framework and support the safe application and use of GMOs in the
country.
Contact:
Steve Galane
Tel: (012) 319 7312
Cell: 083 635 7346
E-mail:smais@nda.agric.za
Issued by: Department of Agriculture
9 March 2006
