StarLink is a brand of genetically modified maize containing two modifications: a gene for resistance to glufosinate, and a variant of the Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) protein called Cry9C.[1] Cry9C had not been used in a GM crop prior to StarLink, causing heightened regulatory scrutiny.[3] StarLink's creator, Plant Genetic Systems, which became Aventis CropScience during the time of the incident,[4]: 15–16 had applied to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to market StarLink for use in both animal feed and human foods.[4]: 14 The Garst Seed Company (part of the Advanta group) was licensed by Aventis to produce and sell StarLink seed in the US.[5]: 8