October 7/Journal of Technology & Science -- "The aim of this study was to evaluate the cumulative effects of using genetically modified and organic soybean in two generations Of rats. Two consecutive generations of 64 Wistar rats denominated F-0 and F-1 were used," scientists in Brazil report.

"The animals from each generation were divided into three groups (n=8) and fed chow made of organic soybean, genetically modified soybean and casein. The PER, NPR and CAE were determined. ANOVA was applied to the results. In both the generatoins a statistically significant (p <0.05) difference was found between the experimental groups and the control group. The organic soybean supplement with L-cystine provided a better use of this protein in comparison to the genetically modified soybean protein, which demonstrated that the soybean maintained its protein use, although always inferior to casein," wrote J.B. Daleprane and colleagues, Federal University.

The researchers concluded, "Thus, soybean should be used with caution during the growth stages because even with supplements, it remained inferior in relation to the casein group."

Daleprane and colleagues published their study in Brazilian Archives of Biology and Technology ("Evaluation of Protein Quality from Genetically Modified and Organic Soybean in two Consecutives Generations of Wistar Rats." Brazilian Archives of Biology and Technology,/i>, 2009;52(4):841-847).

For additional information, contact J.B. Daleprane, Federal University of Fluminense, Rio De Janeiro, Brazil.

From the October 12, 2009, Prepared Foods E-dition