UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA) ANIMAL AND PLANT HEALTH INSPECTION SERVICE (APHIS) ISSUE REGULATORY STATUS REVIEW RESPONSE ON J.R. SIMPLOT GENETICALLY ENGINEERED POTATO.

APHIS issues regulatory status review on J.R. Simplot potato genetically engineered to provide resistance to potato late blight, resistance to potato virus Y, and alterations to the potato sugar profile and quality. In the regulatory status review, APHIS determined that it was unlikely that the engineered potato posed an increased pest risk compared to other potato plants and, therefore, are not subject to regulation under 7 CFR part 340. These potato plants are determined to be safe to grow and breed in the United States without increased plant pest risk.

Developers can submit a RSR request to APHIS under 7 CFR part 340 when they believe a genetically modified plant is not subject to regulation. After the request is submitted, APHIS reviews the plant to see if it posed a greater risk than other nonregulated plants. Their determinations are based on plant variety knowledge, trait knowledge and the understanding of modifications.

Infinite Enzymes submitted an RSR to APHIS as well for a genetically altered corn seed. The seed was modified to produce the enzyme manganese peroxidase and made to be resistant to the herbicide glufosinate. It was also found to not pose an increased plant pest risk.

If you would like to review the submitted RSR requests and status reviews, please visit APHIS here.