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Join geneticist Kevin Folta and GLP contributor Cameron English on episode 146 of Science Facts and Fallacies as they break down these latest news stories:
Anti-GMO groups often assert that seed companies, Monsanto being the most notorious, dictate the kinds of products farmers can use. As it turns out, the activists themselves often exercise this power over the people who grow our food. In Mexico, for instance, the government has banned biotech crops, under the influence of public officials affiliated with anti-GMO advocacy groups. The growers themselves are actually quite happy to utilize biotechnology to reduce their pesticide use and increase their crop yields.
Soylent used to brag in its ads and on its packaging that it was “proudly pro-GMO.” Recently, though, the company has changed its tone. Any references to GMOs have been removed from its advertising and product labels. It even deleted old blog posts from its website that discussed the science of genetic engineering. What motivated the company’s decision? Did Soylent shy away from an important cause, or was this a shrewd business move?
Kevin M. Folta is a professor, keynote speaker and podcast host. Follow Professor Folta on Twitter @kevinfolta
Cameron J. English is the director of bio-sciences at the American Council on Science and Health. Visit his website and follow ACSH on Twitter @ACSHorg
