Questions raised about Monsanto Genetically Modified corn
Pastor Dale Morgan
Wednesday March 14, 6:54 AM Reuters
*Questions raised about Monsanto Genetically Modified corn*
PARIS (Reuters) - Environmental group Greenpeace launched a fresh attack
on genetically modified maize developed by U.S. biotech giant Monsanto,
saying on Tuesday that rats fed on one version developed liver and
kidney problems.
Greenpeace said a study it had commissioned that was published in the
journal Archives of Environmental Contamination and Technology showed
rats fed for 90 days on Monsanto's MON863 maize showed "signs of
toxicity" in the liver and kidneys.
"It is the first time that independent research, published in a
peer-reviewed journal, has proved that a GMO authorised for human
consumption presents signs of toxicity," Arnaud Apoteker, a spokesman
for Greenpeace France said in a statement.
Campaigners against Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO) say that
genetic modification technology is unproven and potentially dangerous
and that GMO crops can contaminate other crops.
The industry says the technology offers vast potential benefits, poses
no health risk and has never been shown to contaminate other crops.
"All the experts agree that the maize in question is as safe as
traditional maize," Yann Fichet, director external relations for
Monsanto France told France's TF1 television.
He said the maize had been authorised in more than 10 countries and in
the European Union but he declined to comment specifically on the
allegations raised by Greenpeace.
MON863 is a form of maize genetically modified to make it resistant to
corn rootworm. It has been authorised by the European Union for use in
animal feed since 2005 and for human consumption since January 2006.