Detection of genetically modified herbicide-tolerant wheat in Alberta

In 2018, we examined an isolated finding of a few genetically modified wheat plants on an access road in southern Alberta. Based on extensive scientific testing, there was no evidence that this GM wheat was present anywhere else other than the isolated site where it was found and there were no risks to food safety.

This page provides more information about this incident and our work related to it.

Statements

• Statement from the CFIA

Background

• Incident Report - Genetically Modified Wheat 2018
• Timeline of key events
• Questions and answers about this GM wheat

Information for producers

• Fact sheet: Safeguarding Canadian Wheat
• Resources and support in managing your operations to stay competitive and prepared for unforeseen situations:
  • Agricultural business management (Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada)

Information for consumers

• Genetically modified foods and other novel foods (Health Canada)
• Labelling of genetically modified foods in Canada

Information for trading partners

• Infographic – How the CFIA tests for GM wheat
• Canadian Grain Commission – Variety identification research and monitoring

Reference material

• "Novelty" and plants with novel traits
• Plants with novel traits which are under review or have been approved for confined or unconfined release in Canada
• Unauthorized release:
  • Overview - Managing cases of non-compliance of unauthorized plant products derived through biotechnology
  • How does the CFIA manage cases of non-compliance of unauthorized plant products derived through biotechnology?

Contact us

If you have any further questions about this detection, contact us.