Impacts of six genetic modifications of corn on feed cost and consumption of traditional feed ingredients

Abstract

This study evaluates the impact of six genetically modified corns on swine and poultry feed costs and on the use of traditional feed ingredients. A Brill linear programming model was used to calculate least-cost feed rations for broilers, layers, tom turkeys, 8-13 pound pigs and finisher hogs. This analysis indicates that likely price reductions in traditional feed ingredients will drive most of the current genetic modifications of corn out of the feed markets. Alternative methods of making genetically modified corns more competitive in the marketplace include stacking modifications to increase the gross value per bushel and lowering the costs of modified corn by reducing yield drag and seed costs. [EconLit Classification: Q17] © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.