Use of Bt formulation (as a source of Cry1Ab protein) has long history of safe use on food crops as a biopesticide with no evidence of adverse effect.  Locally, Bt microbial formulations (Dipel, Thuricide) have been approved for commercial use by the Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA).The Cry1Ab protein shows no amino acid sequence homology to known protein toxins, other than other Cry proteins, and is rapidly degraded with loss of insecticidal activity under conditions that simulate mammalian digestion. The cry1Ab gene was not derived from an allergenic source, and the Cry1Ab protein does not possess immunologically relevant sequence similarity with known allergens or possess the characteristics of known protein allergens. Cry1Ab produced no adverse effects at high dose in an acute oral rodent toxicity study.  The NOEL was found to be 4000 mg/kg, the highest dose level tested.  These studies support the safety of Cry1Ab protein and are fully consistent with the extensive history of safe use for the Cry1Ab protein that has high selectivity for insects. Cry1Ab protein is safe to non-target organisms such as fish, birds, mammals and beneficial insects. Neither Cry1Ab had a direct or indirect effect on the arthropod population, abundance of beneficial insect community structure and earthworm population.