The Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) is supporting a project to develop new wheat varieties designed to improve human health and reduce the incidence of diabetes and obesity.

GRDC Chairman Terry Enright said the GRDC would contribute one third of the research costs in an incorporated joint venture to develop and commercialise a high amylose wheat.

High amylose wheat starch has an amylose content above 50 per cent, compared with 20 to 30 per cent in existing wheat varieties.

High amylose wheat has high levels of resistant starch and a lower glycaemic index than current wheat varieties.

When combined in baked products and pasta, these properties make it extremely effective in tackling the problems of obesity, Type 11 diabetes and colorectal cancer.

The two other partners in the joint venture are the CSIRO and Biogemma (a subsidiary of Groupe Limagrain).

Mr Enright said while the GRDC was a latecomer to investing in high-amylose wheat, he congratulated the CSIRO and Limagrain for investing in the development of the technology in the last decade to a point where a commercial product was in sight.

“We can clearly see the opportunity for the industry to provide higher margin specialised grain products for Australian farmers to grow for our markets,” he said.

“This is consistent with the GRDC’s role to invest in new technology to ensure the Australian grains industry remains competitive and financially sustainable by participating in new higher value markets.”

Mr Enright said national research priorities established by the Australian Government, which, with growers, funds the GRDC, included promoting and maintaining good health, improving industry competitiveness and developing ‘frontier’ technologies.

“The beauty of the joint venture is that it meets all of these priorities,” he said.

“The health claims of the technology address key dietary issues of bowel health.

“The science involves leading edge technology, using the CSIRO-developed RNAi gene silencing techniques and the participation of Limagrain provides the market signals and expertise to develop the products for market.


“GRDC surveys tell us growers are very interested in new products and varieties that will increase their income opportunities to assist their competitiveness in both traditional markets and new market segments.

“To deliver these results and benefits, the GRDC recognises it must partner with the best research organisations and partners in the value chain,” Mr Enright said.

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