In a feature article on bioengineering of oilseeds, it was reported that between 18-20.5 million acres of genetically engineered oilseeds are planted in the United States this year. Genetically modified crops are being grown primarily for herbicide tolerance or pest resistance. During 1996, soybeans with herbicide resistance were planted on about one million acres in the United States. In 1997, the plantings were increased to 8-10 million acres and it is anticipated that 1998 planting will reach 20 million acres. Soybean growers are using these first-generation herbicide- tolerant soybean varieties to expand weed control options and reduce herbicide use.

The article reported that approximately 8,000 acres of a soybean variety with oil containing 80-85 percent oleic acid were planted in Iowa. These soybeans contain more than three times the level of oleic acid that normally occurs in soybeans. These high-oleic soybeans contain a very stable oil that resists oxidation.

Other bioengineered soybeans in the pipeline include soybeans with 80-100 percent increase in the content of the essential amino acid methionine; soybeans with 100-400 percent increase in lysine; soybeans with significantly lower levels oligosaccharides; and a large number of soybean germplasm lines with altered fatty acid levels. The companies developing these soybean lines are very interested in "stacking" the traits to spread the cost associated with producing and marketing these soybeans with added value. It appears that bioengineering of soybeans is rapidly expanding and may soon change the way soybeans are grown and marketed.

Haumann, B.F. 1997. Bioengineered oilseed acreage escalating. Inform, 8(8):804-811.