The Mudcat Café TM
Thread #150929   Message #3519702
Posted By: Q (Frank Staplin)
27-May-13 - 01:19 PM
Thread Name: BS: GMOs (Monsanto)
Subject: RE: BS: GMOs (Monsanto)
Much of what Richard Bridge is worth considering.

A new phase of agriculture has been entered, and the effects have not
been studied in detail. Genetically modified seeds can increase food yields by increasing resistance to pests, drought and other unfavorable conditions, but long term effects are not understood.

Monsanto (and others) have obtained patents on genetically modified seed strains. How far should this protection go?
Plant hybridizers have long been given protection for the new varieties that they have placed on the market, but these plants do not have the potential for widespread effects on food crops. Protection of genetically modified plants and other organisms has opened a new window, and the view is disturbing.

I agree that accidental crossing with crops that are not part of the patented strain should not be the subject of prosecution.

In Europe, genetically modified crops are looked upon with disfavor- perhaps with good reason since the long term effects are not known.