Allegations made by longtime opponents of biotechnology in the context of a lawsuit filed today in Washington, D.C. are absolutely baseless, Monsanto officials stated today.

"This action is another in a series of unsuccessful attempts by veteran antagonists to stop a technology with the potential to improve our environment, increase food production, and improve health,'' said David Snively, assistant general counsel, for Monsanto. "We're confident this suit will be dismissed.''

Seed with enhanced traits such as insect protection and herbicide tolerance have been commercially available since the mid-1990's. Prior to entering the commercial market, each of Monsanto's seed products underwent years of rigorous testing to determine their safety, environmental and performance characteristics. They also have been subjected to intense scrutiny by regulatory agencies, including the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Safety testing is based on internationally accepted standards developed by the World Health Organization, the United Nations Food and Agricultural Organization, and other prestigious scientific authorities.

As a result of biotechnology, many growers have been able to dramatically reduce farming inputs, such as chemical insecticides, and to facilitate the use of valuable soil conservation practices, while at the same time maintaining or enhancing crop yields. In the fields of healthcare and nutrition, the future opportunities are also broad and meaningful, adding critical tools in the fight against nutrient deficiencies and disease.

"Monsanto is committed to the farmer's right to have access to high quality seed choices that allow them to continue in the outstanding progress they have made in producing more food with fewer resources on less land,'' Snively added.

Company news release
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