27 Mar 2005
Science vs. Culture in Mexico's Corn Staple

It's loose n the wild - and the patent battles to come could well devastate the agricultural sector of the Mexican economy, as well as change the face of Mexican culture.

I suppose that's a small price to pay so Monsanto and ConAgra can grow rich by claiming ownership of genetic material. And this proves once again that the devastation caused by so-called "free trade" agreements between unequal partners is indeed a two way street.

The discovery of genetically modified corn has ignited a furor over what many see as an assault on the crop that is at the core of Mexico's identity.

(link) [NYT > Home Page]

00:00 /Agriculture | 0 comments | permanent link