StarLink corn was originally developed as an answer to the European corn borer. It was discovered that the Cry9C protein imparts resistance to this pest and was subsequently incorporated into the new feed crop. However, when the corn was found in taco shells many activist groups sounded the alarm.

Aventis now claims that according to both the EPA and an assessment prepared by Novigen Sciences, that the Cry9C protein does not require a risk assessment or pose a health risk to humans. The company also affirms that the EPA and the FDA have established that there are no general toxicity issues related to the Cry9C protein.