Bayer CropScience responds to honey bee concerns

Bayer CropScience LP announced that the claims by some environmental groups against one of its products are incorrect and unwarranted with regard to honey bee concerns.

Bayer CropScience was recently made aware of an unauthorized release from within the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of a document regarding the seed treatment product, clothianidin, which is sold in the United States corn market. Bayer CropScience disagrees with the claims by some environmental groups against this product and we believe these are incorrect and unwarranted with regard to honey bee concerns.

The study referenced in the document is important research, conducted by independent experts and published in a major peer-reviewed scientific journal. The long-term field study conducted in accordance with Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) by independent experts using clothianidin-treated seed showed that there were no effects on bee mortality, weight gain, worker longevity, brood development, honey yield and over-winter survival. The EPA reviewed and approved the study protocol prior to its initiation and it was peer-reviewed and published in the Journal of Economic Entomology.* Upon reviewing the results of the long-term trial, the Agency noted the study as "scientifically sound and satisfies the guideline requirements for a field toxicity test with honey bees.

Clothianidin is the leading seed treatment on corn in the United States and has been used extensively for over six years without incident to honey bees.

Innovative seed treatment technology represents an environmentally sound approach to crop protection. Treating the seed provides a targeted and effective means of application that helps increase yields, safeguard our environment and ensure a sustainable means of crop production.

NOTE: More information on Bayer CropScience and honey bees can be found at: http://www.bayercropscience.com/bcsweb/cropprotection.nsf/id/EN_Bee_Health_Crop_Protection_2010.

*Clothianidin Honey Bee Field Study: Journal of Economic Entomology, 100(3): pages 765-772.