Genetically modified (GM) wheat has been discovered on an access road in Southern Alberta, after it was reported the few plants survived a spray treatment for weeds.

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) announced the findings Thursday, June 14th, and said they found the GM wheat last summer.

Genetically modified wheat is not approved for use in Canada, however the trait that was found is approved for use in canola, corn, and soybeans.

Director of the CFIA Plant Production Division, David Bailey, said they tested seven wheat plants and destroyed the rest.

"There is no evidence that this GM wheat is present anywhere other that the isolated site where it was discovered," Bailey said. "The same genetically modified trait has been approved in canola, corn, and soybeans for over 20 years. In these crops, previous Health Canada and CFIA safety assessments have demonstrated that this trait does not pose a risk to public health, the health of animals, or the environment."

The access road the plants were discovered on is located on a farm. A farmer operates the land around the road, but leases the road access.

The CFIA said, they don't know how the GM wheat got there.

The CFIA also refused the give any further details on the exact location of the GM wheat to protect the privacy of the land owner.

"The GM wheat has a genetic background that does not match any currently registered wheat in Canada," said Dr. Heather Shearer, Acting National Manager of Plant Biosafety for CFIA. "It has a finger print that is distinct from any registered wheat. However, the CFIA is continuing our work to identify the specific class of wheat, but this work is on going."

It's not yet known what effect this might have on international trade.