Genetic modifications

Maize, genetically modified to resist insects, has been found to excrete toxin into the soil which remains active for 25 days. Previous research showed the toxin was released from pollen but the continual leakage from the root system could lead to the triggering of new resistant strains of pests in the soil. The toxin could also harm benign or useful soil organisms. This is past the experimental phase as in the US 15mn acres, almost 20% of the maize crop, is so modified.