ExSeed Genetics L.L.C. announces the release of two low-phytate corn varieties that will be available throughout the United States for the 1999 growing season. NutriDense(TM) LP and Yellow Dent LP are the first low-phytate corn varieties available to swine and poultry producers.

"Other companies are talking about how they are developing these new grain varieties for release in the year 2000 or 2001. ExSeed Genetics has developed two low-phytate corn varieties, called NutriDense LP and Yellow Dent LP, that will be available for the 1999 growing season," says Mark Scholl, president and chief executive officer of ExSeed Genetics.

NutriDense LP and Yellow Dent LP are two of the value-enhanced grains being developed by ExSeed Genetics. They join the company's amylose, waxy traits and white corn genetics already in the marketplace.

Low-phytate corn is naturally high in digestible phosphorus. Phytic acid (referred to as phytate), a naturally occurring plant compound used to store phosphorus, can inhibit an animal's phosphorus absorption, which means producers must add phosphorus supplements or phytase enzymes to feed. University of Illinois research shows that low-phytate corn from ExSeed Genetics contains 84 percent digestible phosphorus -- three times the level of digestible phosphorus found in conventional corn.

NutriDense LP and Yellow Dent LP can be fed without these costly additives, reducing the amount of phosphorus excreted in manure, which means less buildup in the soil. "Low-phytate corn is truly a revolutionary product for swine and poultry producers. And ExSeed Genetics will bring it to the market first," Scholl says.

Key markets for NutriDense LP and Yellow Dent LP will include those markets where swine and poultry producers face increased environmental regulations. Scholl says NutriDense LP and Yellow Dent LP will reach full availability in the 2000 growing season.

NutriDense LP and Yellow Dent LP will be available for interested seed companies through Thurston Genetics, the exclusive inbred and trait marketing agent for ExSeed Genetics.

Through exclusive licensing agreements, ExSeed Genetics uses several genetic patents to incorporate specialty traits into agricultural grain crops. Unique proprietary breeding processes developed by ExSeed can speed crops with specific traits to the marketplace faster than ever before. The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Research Service (ARS) holds the
patent on low-phytate corn. ExSeed Genetics will license the low-phytate corn technology from ARS.

Through the ExSeed Genetics Network, ExSeed signs agreements with independent partners well versed in the development and production of identity-preserved grains, and coordinates the system to get ExSeed Enhanced (TM) grains delivered to the end user.

ExSeed Genetics works with select Production Partners to produce grain according to the end users' exact specifications, delivering identity-preserved grain when and where it is needed. The ExSeed Genetics Network includes seed, production and logistics partners experienced in the special handling and storage required by identity-preserved grains.

ExSeed Genetics L.L.C., headquartered in Owensboro, Ky., was formed in 1994, and has research operations in Owensboro, Ames, Iowa, and Olivia, Minn. You can visit the ExSeed Genetics web site at www.exseedgenetics.com .

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