Genetically Engineered (GE) Seed Manufacturers Stifle Independent Research
The editors of Scientific American recently spoke out against Monsanto's user agreements that forbid anyone from using GE seeds for independent research. The user agreements prevent anyone from evaluating the quality of the engineered seeds, determining whether they perform as advertised, comparing them with other non-engineered varieties or evaluating their possible impact on human health or the environment unless given permission from the company. In many cases the Monsanto and other companies blocked the publication of studies that were unfavorable to GE crops after they had initially given permission for the studies to be done.  Given that there are documented cases of illnesses caused by genetically engineered food crops, this is a potentially very serious issue for consumers.