Federal agriculture authorities have officially declared that a genetically engineered citrus rootstock developed to combat a devastating tree disease is no longer subject to regulatory oversight.
The rootstock, identified as event CarriCea T1, was created by Soil Culture Solutions, LLC using genetic engineering techniques. It was specifically designed to resist citrus greening disease, a bacterial infection also known as Huanglongbing, or HLB, that has caused widespread damage to citrus orchards across the United States.
Regulators reached their determination after reviewing a petition submitted by Soil Culture Solutions, LLC requesting nonregulated status for the product. That review included an examination of available scientific data, a plant pest risk assessment, and public comments gathered following an earlier notice that made both the petition and a draft risk assessment available for public review.
Officials have announced the availability of the written determination along with all supporting documentation for public access.
