Monsanto, a global leader in agricultural biotechnology, has long been a subject of controversy and debate. From its role in producing toxic chemicals like Agent Orange and PCBs to its dominance in the genetically modified (GMO) seed market, Monsanto’s impact on agriculture, public health, and the environment is undeniable. In this article, we uncover the top 10 shocking facts about Monsanto, including its unethical business practices, health risks of GMOs, and the devastating effects on farmers and ecosystems. Whether you’re concerned about food safety, environmental sustainability, or corporate accountability, these facts will shed light on why Monsanto remains one of the most controversial companies in the world.
#1: No GMO Labeling Laws in the USA!
In the United States, foods containing genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are not required to be labeled. Monsanto has fought aggressively to prevent labeling laws, despite the fact that approximately 70% of processed foods in the U.S. now contain GMO ingredients. This lack of transparency is alarming, especially when compared to other nations like the European Union, Japan, China, Australia, and New Zealand, where GMO labeling is mandatory. Consumers in these countries have the right to know what’s in their food, but Americans are left in the dark.
#2: Monsanto’s GMOs Are Unhealthy
The American Academy of Environmental Medicine (AAEM) has urged doctors to prescribe non-GMO diets for all patients. They cite animal studies showing that GMOs can cause organ damage, gastrointestinal disorders, immune system disruptions, accelerated aging, and infertility. Human studies have also found that genetically modified material can remain in the body, potentially causing long-term problems. For example:
- Genes from GM soy have been found to transfer into the DNA of bacteria living in our guts.
- The toxic insecticide produced by GM corn has been detected in the blood of pregnant women and their unborn fetuses.
Since GMOs were introduced in 1996, there has been a significant rise in chronic illnesses, food allergies, and conditions like autism, reproductive disorders, and digestive problems. While direct causation has not been definitively proven, medical groups like the AAEM recommend avoiding GMOs, especially for children, who are most at risk.
The American Public Health Association and American Nurses Association have also condemned the use of GM bovine growth hormone (rBGH) in milk, as it increases levels of IGF-1, a hormone linked to cancer.
#3: Monsanto Puts Small Farmers Out of Business
Monsanto has sued hundreds of American farmers for patent infringement related to its genetically engineered seeds. In one infamous case, Canadian farmer Percy Schmeiser was sued after Monsanto’s GM canola contaminated his fields. Despite Schmeiser’s claims that the contamination was accidental, the courts ruled in Monsanto’s favor, forcing him to pay hundreds of thousands of dollars in damages.
In India, the introduction of Monsanto’s GM cotton has been linked to a tragic wave of farmer suicides. Over 125,000 farmers have taken their own lives after crop failures and mounting debts left them bankrupt. Many farmers, lured by promises of higher yields, borrowed heavily to purchase Monsanto’s seeds, only to face devastating losses. In some cases, farmers drank Monsanto’s Roundup herbicide to end their lives.
#4: Monsanto Products Pollute the Developing World
Monsanto is responsible for more than 50 EPA Superfund sites in the U.S., where hazardous waste from its chemical production has contaminated the environment. The company’s legacy includes the production of Agent Orange, DDT, PCBs, and dioxin, all of which have caused severe environmental and health damage.
In Colombia, Monsanto’s Roundup herbicide is used in aerial spraying as part of U.S.-backed counter-insurgency efforts. This has led to the contamination of food crops and poisoning of villagers. Roundup is often applied in concentrations 26 times higher than recommended for agricultural use, causing severe health problems, including respiratory issues, gastrointestinal disorders, and even death.
#5: Monsanto Blocks Government Regulations
Monsanto has deep ties to U.S. regulatory and judicial bodies, creating a revolving door between the company and government agencies. For example:
- Michael Taylor, a former Monsanto lawyer, has held key positions at the FDA, where he played a role in approving Monsanto’s products.
- Clarence Thomas, a former Monsanto attorney, now serves on the U.S. Supreme Court and has ruled in favor of the company in key cases.
Monsanto also spends millions on lobbying and political contributions to influence policies in its favor. In 2008 alone, Monsanto spent $8.8 million on lobbying efforts.
#6: Monsanto Guilty of False Advertising & Scientific Fraud
Monsanto has been repeatedly caught engaging in false advertising and scientific fraud. For example:
- In 2009, France’s highest court ruled that Monsanto had lied about the safety of Roundup, falsely advertising it as “biodegradable.”
- The EPA has uncovered instances of data falsification in studies conducted by labs hired by Monsanto to test glyphosate, the active ingredient in Roundup. In one case, a lab owner was sentenced to 5 years in prison for falsifying test results.
These deceptive practices have undermined public trust and raised serious questions about the safety of Monsanto’s products.
#7: Consumers Reject Bovine Growth Hormone (rBGH) in Milk
Monsanto’s genetically engineered rBGH, used to increase milk production in cows, has been widely rejected by consumers due to health concerns. Major retailers like Walmart, Starbucks, and Kroger have banned rBGH milk from their stores. Studies have linked rBGH to increased levels of IGF-1, a hormone associated with cancer.
Despite this, Monsanto has lobbied to prevent dairies from labeling their products as rBGH-free, further demonstrating its disregard for consumer choice and transparency.
#8: GMO Crops Do Not Increase Yields
Contrary to Monsanto’s claims, GMO crops have not been proven to increase yields. In fact, studies have shown that GM soybeans yield 6.7% less than conventional varieties. In South Africa, a significant portion of Monsanto’s GM corn failed to produce seeds, resulting in massive financial losses for farmers.
A major UN/World Bank report concluded that GM crops offer little to address global challenges like hunger and poverty, instead championing organic farming as a more sustainable solution.
#9: Monsanto Controls the U.S. Soy Market
Monsanto’s Roundup Ready soybeans dominate the U.S. soy market, with over 90% of soybeans grown in the U.S. containing Monsanto’s patented genes. Soy is a key ingredient in countless processed foods, from salad dressings to infant formula, making Monsanto’s control over this crop a significant concern for food safety and consumer choice.
#10: Monsanto’s GMO Foods Cause New Food Allergies
Since the introduction of GMOs, there has been a dramatic increase in food allergies. In the UK, reactions to soy skyrocketed by 50% after GM soy entered the market. Laboratory studies on animals have shown that GMOs can cause new allergies, cancer, sterility, miscarriages, seizures, and even death.
Conclusion
Monsanto’s history is marked by environmental destruction, health controversies, and aggressive corporate practices. From its role in producing toxic chemicals like Agent Orange and PCBs to its dominance in the GMO seed market, Monsanto has left a lasting impact on agriculture, public health, and the environment. As consumers, it is crucial to stay informed and advocate for transparency, sustainability, and ethical practices in our food system.
