Recently the United States Department of Agriculture deregulated Monsanto’s genetically modified (GM) alfalfa, an action that will surely corrupt the non-GM alfalfa sprouts growing in nearby organic farms.
Monsanto is one of the leading agricultural biotechnology corporations in the United States committed to producing genetically engineered seeds for crops. Soy beans, corn, and cotton are among some of the crops grown from these GM seeds, and due to recent decisions made by the USDA, alfalfa sprouts are now getting tossed into the bag.
Not placing any restrictions upon Monsanto’s use of GM alfalfa seeds creates a host of problems. To begin with, bees are responsible for the cross-pollination of alfalfa, which means GM alfalfa can potentially become cross-pollinated with non-GM alfalfa. There is also the risk of GM seeds getting transferred to organic farms by wind or by animals. If GM seeds come into contact with non-GM alfalfa, GM contamination can result, which can also lead organic farmers to lose their contracts.
While you might be shaking your head thinking, what’s the big deal? I don’t usually eat alfalfa sprouts, how will it affect me? Think again. Alfalfa sprouts are the fourth largest crop grown in the United States and are used in dairy cow and beef cattle feed because they are such a rich source of protein and calcium. This means our meat and dairy products will also become tainted with genetically engineered seeds because they are ingested by cows.
If you would like to see how you can take action against this deregulation, check out Food and Water Watch at the link below. It’s a great site to show your support for organic farming!
http://www.foodandwaterwatch.org/take-action/
References:
http://www.foodandwaterwatch.org/take-action/
http://blog.wholefoodsmarket.com/2011/01/no-regulations-ge-alfalfa/
