Rogue strain of genetically modified Monsanto wheat found in US field 'poses no risk to Australia' - ABC News (Australian Broadcasting Corporation)

DON'T KNOW WHAT THEY DID BUT IT'S OK !!! BS...   Monte

Authorities say a rogue strain of genetically modified wheat causing alarm in the United States poses little risk in Australia.

The strain of wheat, developed by biotech giant Monsanto a decade ago, was resistant to some herbicides but was never approved for sale or consumption.

The strain was thought to have been eliminated after test trials ended in 2005, but it was found growing in a field in Oregon late last month.

Even after weeks of investigation, experts are baffled as to how the seed survived for years after Monsanto had ceased all field tests of the product.

It was found in a field growing a different type of wheat than Monsanto's strain, far from areas used for field tests.

Key points
Mysterious strain of GM wheat found growing in US field.
Experts are baffled as to how it survived after test trials ended.
Officials say it poses no threat to human health.
But the discovery has still sparked alarm.
Major buyer Japan has cancelled plans to buy US wheat.
The European Union is stepping up testing of imported wheat.

But Australian authorities say it poses little risk here.

US officials are investigating, but say the strain poses no threat to human health.

Australia does not import wheat for human consumption from the US.

Australia's Gene Technology Regulator says there has been no commercial release of genetically modified wheat locally, and strict conditions are imposed on crop trials.

Genetically modified crops cannot be grown legally in the United States unless the government approves them after a review to ensure they pose no threat to the environment or to people.

Monsanto says there is "considerable reason" to believe the presence of its product is "very limited."

Despite this, it has caused alarm and sparked protests in America and beyond.

Consumers, environmental activists and farmers have expressed concern over the possible risk of cross-contaminating natural products with genetically altered foods.

Major buyer Japan has cancelled plans to buy US wheat, while the European Union is stepping up testing of imported wheat.

ABC/wires
Rogue strain of genetically modified Monsanto wheat found in US field 'poses no risk to Australia' - ABC News (Australian Broadcasting Corporation)