Washington, DC
October 16,  2001

The following is a statement by Dr. Val Giddings, BIO Vice President for Food and Agriculture: 

"The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has completed a nearly two-year scientific review of Bt corn and found that these products 'pose no risks to human health or to the environment.' 

"Bt corn is an important tool for food producers that can increase crop yields and protect the environment by reducing the use of conventional pesticides. The EPA's approval of continued use for these products sends a strong signal to the rest of the world that these products are safe and offer significant benefits for growers, consumers and the environment. 

"Of particular importance is the finding that there is no scientific evidence that Bt corn impacts Monarch butterflies. We hope this lays to rest this 'urban myth.' " 

The Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO) represents more than 1,000 biotechnology companies, academic institutions, state biotechnology centers and related organizations in all 50 U.S. states and 33 other nations. BIO members are involved in the research and development of health-care, agricultural, industrial and environmental biotechnology products. 

Note: Complete assessment will soon be posted on EPA's website at: http://www.epa.gov/pesticides/biopesticides/  

BIO news release
N3881