Exhibit 10.27


BIOTECHNICA INTERNATIONAL, INC.
PROMISSORY NOTE


For value received, BioTechnica International, Inc., a Delaware 
Corporation, promises to pay to Limagrain Genetics Corp., a Delaware 
Corporation, the sum of three million, two hundred sixty thousand, eight 
hundred and forty six ($3,260,846) U.S. Dollars.

This note replaces and supersedes the note in the same face amount dated 
June 30, 1995.  By acceptance of this note, the previous note is 
considered paid in full and canceled.

The indebtedness evidenced by this note is subordinated to any and all 
indebtedness, obligations, and liabilities of BioTechnica International, 
Inc. hereof to Harris Trust and Savings Bank in the manner and to the 
extent set forth in that certain Subordination Agreement with said Bank 
dated June 29, 1994, to which reference is hereby made of a more fully 
statement thereof.

The note will be due and payable on July 1, 1998.

The interest rate for each period (July 1 through June 30 of the 
following year) will be determined annually on July 1 (or the next day 
if July 1 is not a banking day).  The rate will be the one year Banque 
Nationale de Paris LIBOR interest rate plus 7/16% p.a.

Interest will be paid annually to Limagrain Genetics Corp. on June 20 
prior to the end of each annual period.

In the event of default, BioTechnica International, Inc. agrees to pay 
all costs of collection and reasonable attorneys' fees to the extent 
permitted by law.  This note will be governed under the laws of the 
State of Illinois.

Signed under seal this 30th day of June, 1996.


BIOTECHNICA INTERNATIONAL, INC.           LIMAGRAIN GENETICS CORP.


/s/ J.C. Gouache                          /s/ E. Rougier
J.C. Gouache                              E. Rougier
President and COO                         President and CEO