The GM maize, which would improve the nutritional value of livestock feed, is in field trials Photo: Andrew Beierle

Genetically modified maize containing higher levels of phytase has been developed by researchers from the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences.

A gene that produces the phytase was isolated from a species of the fungus, Aspergillus, and transferred into the maize, reports the AllAboutFeed news service. The maize, which would improve the nutritional value of livestock feed, is in field trials.  It is estimated that it could save Chinese farmers up to $60 million per year in feed costs.
By Simon Varcoe

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