Monsanto launches 2 new GM maize products

Monsanto announced on Monday it has launched two new GM maize products, MON 89034 (YieldGard ll) and MON 89034 x NK 603 (stacked trait) and seed will be available for the 2011 season.

The maize has been approved for commercial cultivation in terms of the GMO Act, Act No 15 of 1997.

"This approval is good news for maize farmers."

It supports our aim of providing farmers with the best available technology and confirmsMonsantos roll as a leader in the field of biotechnology," said Kobus Lindeque, managing director ofMonsanto--1.htm"> Monsanto, sub-Saharan Africa.

YieldGard ll provides improved control of two stalk borer species, Busseola fusca and Chilo partellus, and reduces the chances of insect resistance.

The stacked trait provides both insect control and herbicide tolerance, resulting in excellent weed control.

The Roundup Ready system supports sustainable agricultural practices such as no-till planting, which reduces erosion and soil compaction while conserving fuel, thereby reducing carbon dioxide emission.

The Roundup Ready maize event has been planted commercially in South Africa since the summer season of 2003,Monsanto said.