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ST. LOUIS, Missouri, March 23, 2005 (ENS): Monsanto has obtained
U.S. regulatory clearance for its next generation cotton
technology, Roundup Ready Flex cotton from the U.S.
Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the U.S. Food and
Drug Administration (FDA).
The company said last week that it intends to launch
the genetically modified cotton for the 2006 growing
season.
No restrictions on domestic planting or food and feed
use of Roundup Ready Flex cottonseed exist now that
the USDA and FDA have completed their review processes.
Yet, Monsanto remains committed to its stewardship program
for key export markets until regulatory clearance is
granted in those markets.
Cottonseed is pressed for oil for human use and the
residue is processed for animal feed.
“These clearances by USDA and FDA underscore
the food, feed and environmental safety of this and
other plant biotechnology products which have delivered
tremendous value to growers and the environment over
the last 10 years,” said Robb Fraley, Ph.D., chief
technology officer of Monsanto.
Roundup Ready Flex cotton will provide a wider application
window for Roundup agricultural herbicides throughout
the growing season, providing growers with increased
flexibility and convenience on the farm, the company
said.
“Since the introduction of Roundup Ready cotton
in 1997, growers have told us that they would like greater
flexibility in making herbicide applications. Roundup
Ready Flex cotton was developed to provide growers with
greater flexibility throughout the season. It will also
facilitate the continued adoption and management of
reduced-tillage practices, and will help growers be
less dependent on selective spray equipment.”
Fraley said.
Campaigners against genetically modified crops argue
that the modified proteins may cause allergies in sensitive
people, and that organic growers cannot keep their crops
free of genetic modification.
http://www.ens-newswire.com/ens/mar2005/2005-03-23-09.asp#anchor7
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