EPA Says: No StarLink for Human Consumption

WASHINGTON--The Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) independent scientific advisory panel (SAP) released a report today summarizing its evaluation of the latest scientific information available on StarLink corn. Based on the SAP report and the scientific assessment on dietary exposure and allergenicity, EPA decided against establishing a tolerance level for StarLink in human food, which was requested last April by Aventis CropScience, manufacturer of StarLink.

In its latest findings (www.epa.gov/scipoly/sap), the SAP reaffirmed that there is a "medium likelihood" StarLink protein (Cry9C) is a potential human allergen, and based on levels of StarLink in the U.S. diet, there is enough evidence demonstrating a "low probability of allergenicity." The SAP recommended against establishing a specific tolerance level for StarLink, stating there is not enough evidence to establish reasonable scientific certainty that exposure would not be harmful to public health.

In addition, the SAP endorsed EPA's conclusion that wet-milling corn removes nearly all Cry9C from products made for human food. In light of this ruling, the SAP supported EPA's decision that there is no public health risk for allowing products to be manufactured from StarLink corn through the wet-milling process, assuming Cry9C levels are low.

"EPA sincerely appreciates the high level of scientific expertise this panel has provided on this issue," said Stephen L. Johnson, EPA Assistant Administrator for the Office of Prevention, Pesticides and Toxic Substances. "Bringing the best science to the table, and evaluating it in a transparent manner, is fundamental as we continue the important work ensuring protection of public health and maintaining consumer confidence in the integrity of the food supply."

In regard to the future of StarLink, EPA estimates that Cry9C in the domestic corn supply will decline quickly after the 2001 crop is harvested and with each subsequent year. The SAP agreed with EPA's estimates that StarLink corn would be almost eliminated from the corn grain supply by 2002, provided that the current testing efforts to contain StarLink grain and seed are maintained.

"Aventis will fulfill its commitment to continue to direct Cry9C containing corn to approved feed and non-food industrial uses," said an Aventis spokesperson. "We will continue to support the grain handlers and millers with their testing programs. We are proud of the progress we have made in containing StarLink corn."

In the meantime, EPA, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will also continue to divert StarLink corn away from the human food supply and to ensure that corn is tested for the presence of Cry9C. Corn grain testing positive for the protein will be redirected for animal feed and industrial uses.

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