In their study, Swedish and Danish scientists came to the conclusion that the seeds of genetically modified canola are able to sprout as long as 10 years after their initial sowing.

In 1995, the scientists planted genetically modified canola, which is resistant to the herbicide glufosinate due to an inserted gene, on a trial field the size of 30 times 40 meters. They harvested the canola in the fall of the same year. Subsequently, the field was sprayed with poison that was supposed to kill all plants. The field was ploughed yearly, and wheat, barley and sugar beets were planted alternately. There was no further cultivation of genetically modified plants in close proximity of the field.

In the spring of 2005, the scientists observed that offspring of the genetically modified canola had survived despite the herbicide-spraying. Overall, 38 canola plants were found, planted in pots and examined. Over an interval of three weeks, they were sprayed with glufosinate twice. 15 out of the 38 plants survived the glufosinate-treatment, meaning that they still carried the herbicide-resistance-gene. According to multiple critics of genetic engineering this study shows that genetically modified plants cannot be stemmed efficiently. The danger of an unintentional spread-out of genetically modified organisms must not be underestimated.