MONSANTO: Cracks Widen in Biotech Industry Myths

Cracks Widen in Biotech Industry Myths

"The widespread opposition to genetically modified crops and foods in Europe continues to rise because consumers and farmers can see that they offer no added value and instead create environmental and health risks," Friends of the Earth Europe Campaigner Mute Schimpf said. "GM crops will hinder, not help the challenge of ensuring we can feed our global population with safe and healthy food."

Friends of the Earth International's report "Who Benefits from GM crops? An industry built on myths" 2011 also finds that:

* A new generation of GM crops designed to promote the use of pesticides Dicamba and 2,4 D, are set for release in the United States. GM companies are promoting these as a solution to the failure of existing GM crops to control weeds and reduce pesticide use.

* Biotech companies, aided by the United States Government, are now looking to new markets in Africa in an attempt to salvage profits. The Gates foundation, which funds billions of dollars worth of agriculture projects in Africa, has bought shares in Monsanto, giving the Gates foundation a direct interest in maximising the profits of Monsanto over protecting the interests of small holders in Africa.

* GM crops continue to collapse in Europe. Less than 0.06% of European fields are planted with GM crops. Seven EU countries have banned Monsanto's GM maize because of growing evidence of its negative environmental impacts. Three countries banned BASF's GM potato due to health concerns immediately after its authorization in spring 2010, and for the first time five member states have sued the European Commission over the authorisation of a GM crop.