The researchers had fed the chickens with Bt corn in order to study the transport of genes via the food chain. After the chickens were killed, the kidneys, spleen, liver, thighs and breasts were examined. Typical sequences from the corn's DNA were found in all the animals. It was not possible to provide direct evidence of the mutant genes from Bt corn - but researchers say this is because of the procedure used. They are convinced that fragments from these genes also reach the edible chicken parts.
Consumers have no cause to worry, say the researchers.
Each day, we ingest up to 1,000 micrograms of foreign DNA with our food. Therefore, the researchers are demanding that new genetic engineering options are handled with more caution when it comes to food production.