MON 810

MON 810 is a genetically modified (GM) maize (corn) variety developed by Monsanto (now Bayer). It is engineered to express the Cry1Ab gene from the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt). This gene encodes a protein (Cry1Ab toxin) that is toxic to certain lepidopteran (moth and butterfly) larvae, specifically the European corn borer ( Ostrinia nubilalis ) and other related pests.

The primary purpose of MON 810 is to provide insect resistance, thereby reducing or eliminating the need for insecticide applications to control these pests. This can lead to potential benefits such as decreased pesticide use, reduced labor costs for farmers, and potentially higher yields due to reduced crop damage.

MON 810 was one of the first commercially grown GM crops, and its use has been the subject of considerable debate. Concerns have been raised regarding its potential environmental impacts, including the development of resistance in target pests, effects on non-target organisms (insects other than the intended pests), and potential gene flow to wild relatives of maize. These concerns have led to different regulatory approaches in various countries, with some countries restricting or banning its cultivation. In the European Union, for example, MON 810 is approved for cultivation in some member states but is banned in others.