DuPont Statement on EU Vote for Food Use of 1507 Maize

DES MOINES, IA, Dec 20, 2005 - Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc., a subsidiary of DuPont, issued the following statement on the announcement of the EU Council of Minister's vote on approval for food use of 1507 maize, marketed as Herculex® I Insect Protection in the United States:

It is greatly encouraging that three more Member States voted to approve 1507 maize for food use than at the previous stage — this is also the highest number of votes in favor of approving a biotech product at Council under the latest EU regulations. However, just as with other biotech submissions in the EU approval process, a few Member States voted against the approval of this safe biotech product regardless of the positive safety opinions from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and other regulatory bodies around the world.

1507 maize has successfully completed the rigorous safety assessment required by EU legislation and brings real benefits to the environment, consumers and the agricultural chain. This request for approval will now be passed back to the EU Commission and we trust that, based on the positive scientific opinion by the EFSA, 1507 maize for food use will receive EU approval without further delay.

Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc., a subsidiary of DuPont, is the world's leading source of customized solutions for farmers, livestock producers, and grain and oilseed processors. With headquarters in Des Moines, Iowa, Pioneer provides access to advanced plant genetics, crop protection solutions, and quality crop systems to customers. DuPont is a science company. Founded in 1802, DuPont puts science to work by creating sustainable solutions essential to a better, safer, healthier life for people everywhere. Operating in more than 70 countries, DuPont offers a wide range of innovative products and services for markets including agriculture, nutrition, electronics, communications, safety and protection, home and construction, transportation and apparel.

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Contacts:
Desiree Fletcher-Hayes
515-334-6768 direct
515-314-7974 mobile

Mike Hall
Europe
+32 2 663 5986 direct
+32 472 851 099 mobile