WAWG
Pacific Northwest wheat and grain commissions, as well as state wheat grower associations, have learned that the Animal Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, confirmed the discovery of glyphosate-resistant wheat plants in a summer fallow field in Eastern Washington. We have been told the plants were not killed after an herbicide application.
In a report published to their website, APHIS said that 22 wheat plants were found to include the Monsanto-developed herbicide resistant trait MON71700. This is a secondary, but similar trait to MON71800, the trait found in Oregon in 2013. The Food & Drug Administration has concluded that based on the small number of affected plants as well as information acquired during APHIS fact finding, that it is unlikely to present any safety concerns. APHIS has found no evidence of GE wheat in commerce.
In cooperation with Monsanto, a test has been developed that will permit overseas customers to test their wheat cargoes for the presence of both MON71800 and MON71700. South Korea and Japan have tested more than 350 million bushels of wheat since the 2013 Oregon event and found no trace of GE wheat.
The farmer, who has now completed this year’s harvest, has agreed to keep his wheat in storage on site. Testing of the crop is being conducted and if any wheat tests positive for GE material none of it will be allowed in commerce.
We want to ensure you that we are working diligently on behalf of Pacific Northwest’s small grain farmers to minimize any potential impacts.
More information on the GMO wheat discovery can be found on the APHIS website here: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/biotechnology/brs-news-and-information/ct
The U.S. Wheat Associate website has more information here:
http://www.uswheat.org/whatsNew