WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is announcing its determination of nonregulated status for roses that have been genetically engineered to produce novel flower color.
Florigene Pty., Ltd. petitioned APHIS for a determination of nonregulated status for two hybrid rose lines designated as IFD-524Ø1-4 and IFD-529Ø1-9 in 2009. APHIS prepared a plant pest risk assessment (PPRA) as required by the Plant Protection Act and an environmental assessment (EA) in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act. On April 13, both documents and Florigene's petition were made available for public review and comment, and APHIS received a total of two comments from various groups and individuals.
APHIS determined that the rose is unlikely to pose a plant pest risk. The finding is based on the agency's analysis of field and laboratory data submitted by Florigene, references provided in the petition, peer-reviewed publications, information analyzed in the EA, the PPRA and its review of the comments provided by the public. The rose is therefore no longer subject to APHIS regulations.
Interstate movements and field trials for IFD-524Ø1-4 and IFD-529Ø1-9 have been conducted under permits issued or notifications acknowledged by APHIS.
Notice of this decision is published in the Sept. 29 Federal Register and becomes effective upon publication.
Source: USDA APHIS