Cape Town — Lobby group Biowatch has criticised US seed group Monsanto's announcement that it is seeking regulatory approval to import genetically modified wheat, saying that the safety of the grain is unproven.

Monsanto says the wheat, which will be milled on entry to SA, is intended for both human and animal consumption. The wheat, called Roundup Ready, has been genetically engineered to resist herbicide, which proponents say reduces the need for harmful chemicals.

Roundup Ready wheat has not yet been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for commercial use. It has run into a storm of controversy in the US, where growers are worried that consumers' reluctance to eat genetically modified wheat may make their crops commercially unviable.

The US does not have segregation facilities, so if genetically engineered wheat enters the food chain there US wheat exports cannot be guaranteed free of the modified grain. SA currently imports wheat from the US and Canada.

Monsanto wanted to ensure the way was clear to import genetically modified wheat into SA should the US authorities give it the go-ahead, said Monsanto's biotechnology regional manager Wally Green.

"It will have absolutely no immediate effect, because the wheat has not been approved anywhere in the world," he said.

In line with the Genetically Modified Organisms Act, Monsanto placed notices in three daily newspapers this week announcing its intention to seek a commodity clearance permit from the agriculture department to import Roundup Ready wheat

The public has 30 days to contact the Genetically Modified Organisms Registrar with objections.

Biowatch spokeswoman Haydee Swanbee said she was concerned about the feasibility of public participation in making a decision on the permits.