BASF Plant Science is a subsidiary of BASF in which all plant biotechnology activities are consolidated. The company was founded in 1998 and employs approximately 700 people at 6 different locations worldwide.[1] The headquarters of BASF Plant Science is located in Research Triangle Park (North Carolina, US) and has research sites in the US, Canada, and Europe. The company mainly develops genetically modified seeds at these locations.[1]
The company genetically modifies crops like maize, soy, cotton, canola, sugarcane, sugar beet, and potatoes for "more efficient agriculture".[1] Together with subsidiaries and partners, as well as in cooperation with universities and research institutions, BASF Plant Science is developing new procedures and practices in genetic technology.
Genetically modified crops by BASF are sold and distributed through biotechnology companies like Monsanto,[2] KWS Saat,[3] Embrapa,[4] or CTC (Centro de Tecnologia Canavieira).[5]
As of 2011, BASF Plant Science has developed three products:
A range of more crops are in the pipeline:
Other products are being developed for the food industry for use in genetically modified foods. Examples include plants with a higher content of omega-3 fatty acids for preventing cardiovascular diseases,[13] and plants with a higher content of astaxanthin which is used in fish farming as feed additive,[14] and as a food supplement for humans.