Agrivida Inc has developed a corn variety by inserting genes that produce phytase enzyme.  Incorporation of Agrivida GM corn in diets might obviate the need to add supplementary phytase. 

The USDA is soliciting public comment on the four submissions by Agrivida including the Plant Pest Risk Assessment, Determination of Non-regulated Status, Draft Environmental Assessment and Finding of No Significant Impact.

The concept of using Grainzyme(TM) corn that expresses phytase is intriguing and a direct benefit of biotechnology.  It is understood that the nutritional value of the Agrivida cultivar is similar to conventional corn but it is unknown whether the cultivar expresses other GM attributes contributing to yield.  The question will be whether the cost of the corn produced using the Agrivida GM seed will be competitive with conventional GM corn in a diet containing an available phytase enzyme additive.  Currently Agrivida corn is produced in limited quantities and as with any specialty crop will require segregation and handling that adds to cost as evidenced by certified organic corn.