Australia`s Gene Technology Regulator Invites Comments on Field Trial of GM Safflower

The Australian Gene Technology Regulator (OGTR) is inviting comments on an application from Miruku Australia Pty. Ltd. to conduct a field trial of safflower genetically modified for dairy protein production and altered fat composition.

The field trial is proposed to take place at up to 1 hectare of planting in 2025 and increase to 20 sites of up to 35 hectares each in 2029. The maximum total planting area proposed is 981 hectares over the 5 years of the trial in New South Wales, Victoria, Western Australia, and South Australia. The GM safflower grown in this field trial would not be used for human food or animal feed.

The Regulator has prepared a Risk Assessment and Risk Management Plan (RARMP) for this application and welcomes written submissions on issues relating to the protection of human health and environmental safety before deciding whether to issue the license. Submissions for DIR 211 should be received by May 1, 2025.

For more details on how to submit comments, visit the DIR 211 page on the OGTR website.

See https://www.isaaa.org/kc/cropbiotechupdate/article/default.asp?ID=21268