​Genetically modified sugarcane developed by CTC is approved by CTNBio

The National Technical Biosafety Commission (CTNBio) approved this Thursday (8/6) the commercial use of the first genetically modified sugar cane (Bt sugarcane) developed by the Sugarcane Technology Center (CTC). Bt sugarcane underwent a rigorous evaluation by CTNBio, which considered it safe from environmental and human and animal health aspects. This is the first genetically modified sugar cane approved for commercialization in the world.

The new variety, CTC 20 Bt, is characterized by resistance to sugarcane borer (Diatraea saccharalis), the main pest that threatens the crop. According to a survey carried out by experts, losses caused by the borer reach R$5 billion annually, due to losses in agricultural and industrial productivity, sugar quality and insecticide costs. The Bt gene (Bacillus thuringiensis) It has been widely used in agriculture for more than 20 years, in the main producing countries in the world, including Brazil, in crops such as soybeans, corn, cotton, among others.

“The approval of Bt Sugarcane by CTNBio is a great achievement for the CTC and the national sugar-energy sector. In the coming years, we plan to expand the portfolio of borer-resistant varieties, adapted to each of Brazil's producing regions. In addition, the CTC also plans to develop varieties resistant to other insects, as well as tolerant to herbicides”, says Gustavo Leite, president of the CTC. The executive also explains that with Bt Sugarcane, “in addition to the economic gains, the producer will be able to simplify logistics and improve the environmental management of their operations”.

An extensive scientific dossier containing studies and technical information on genetically modified (GM) sugarcane was submitted to CTNBio at the end of 2015 for risk analysis to health and the environment using internationally accepted standards. Process studies have proven that the sugar and ethanol obtained from the new variety are identical to products derived from conventional sugarcane. Additional studies have shown that both the Bt gene and the protein are completely eliminated in sugarcane derivatives during the manufacturing process. Furthermore, environmental studies have not found any negative effects related to soil composition, biodegradability of GM sugarcane or insect populations, except for target pests (mainly borer).

After final approval and registration of Bt Sugarcane, the CTC will work with producers, starting the process of distributing CTC 20 Bt seedlings and monitoring planting. Gustavo Leite explains that “the propagation process is similar to that of introducing a conventional variety, with the sugarcane from the first years being used to expand the planted area and not for the production of sugar and ethanol. This process is aligned with the schedule for obtaining international approvals for sugar produced from GM sugarcane”, says Gustavo Leite.