Oct 28, 2016USDA deregulates additional varieties of Innate potatoes
USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) extended deregulation to two lines of genetically engineered (GE) potatoes developed by J.R. Simplot Company for late blight resistance, low acrylamide potential, reduced black spot bruising, and lowered reducing sugars. APHIS previously reviewed and deregulated these GE traits in other GE potatoes.
The deregulated varieties are the Ranger Russet and Atlantic varieties of the second generation of Innate biotech potatoes. These varieties join the Innate second generation Russet Burbank potato which was deregulated last year.
According to Simplot, the second generation of Innate potatoes contains four traits of relevance to potato growers, processors and consumers: 1.) Reduced bruising and black spots; 2.) Reduced asparagine; 3.) Protection against the late blight pathogen; and, 4.) Enhanced cold storage capability. These traits were achieved by adding only genes from wild and cultivated potatoes, according to the company.
APHIS prepared a plant pest risk similarity assessment, preliminary finding of no significant impact, and a preliminary determination of nonregulated status that were available for a 30-day public review and comment period from Sept. 23 to Oct. 24. APHIS received no new information during the public comment period and prepared a final FONSI and Determination.
To view related documents or the public comments APHIS received on this docket, see APHIS Docket No. APHIS-2016-0067.
