GM Bt crops, which are genetically engineered to produce insecticidal proteins, are losing effectiveness as pests develop resistance to the Bt toxin insecticides. Researchers analysed global resistance monitoring data for 24 pest species based on the first 25 years of cultivation of Bt crops, including corn, cotton, soybean, and sugarcane. Each of the 73 cases examined represents the response of one pest species in one country to one Bt toxin produced by one or more Bt crops. The cases of practical resistance rose from 3 in 2005 to 26 in 2020. Practical resistance has been documented in some populations of 11 pest species, collectively affecting nine widely used Bt toxins in seven countries. Conversely, 30 cases reflected no decrease in susceptibility to Bt crops in populations of 16 pest species in 10 countries. The remaining 17 cases provide early warnings of resistance, which entail genetically based decreases in susceptibility without evidence of reduced field efficacy. Journal of Economic Entomology

 

 

Impossible Foods has stopped using GMO soy protein as the main ingredient in its Impossible Burgers in New Zealand. But it still contains GMO-manufactured soy leghemoglobin, the "fake meat" ingredient that makes the burger look as if it is bleeding. And GMO soy protein remains the main ingredient in the US and Canada. GE-Free New Zealand

 

 

Scientists have developed a new variety of alfalfa that can thrive in chilly climates and droughts, offering a promising solution for farmers in colder regions. The new variety is the result of cross-breeding alfalfa with wild relatives and selection for cold tolerance. The scientist who led the research to develop the variety is an active participant in seed sharing schemes with farmers and has already given away 1,000 kg of seed to about 500 farmers, who will in turn produce seed to sell at regional markets. Crop Trust

 

 

The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), the UK's leading gardening charity, is removing the final weed and bug killers from its shops and online – a process it has been doing for some time. By early May, RHS retail "will only sell pesticide free plant protection products as part of our ongoing approach to garden as sustainably as possible". RHS on Twitter @The_RHS

 

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