Monsanto's missing mice

The Austrian government today released results showing reduced fertility in mice that have been fed a variety of Monsanto's genetically engineered maize: NK603 x MON 810. The variety contains two different genes: one that makes the maize resistant to Monsanto's proprietary weedkilling chemical, Roundup, and the other that makes the maize produce its own pesticide within the plant.

It should come as no surprise that health effects are found long after the variety has been cleared for placing on the market and in the human food supply. Testing of genetically engineered crops is notoriously superficial and long-term studies are done rarely, if ever. A recent review by Jose Domingo presents a strong critique of what passes for safety evaluations.

There is little funding for such studies and little interest on the part of governments to really dig deep into the possible health effects of GMOs. We will see more announcements like these in the future, but unfortunately far fewer than the necessary scientific inquiry to protect public health and the food supply would dictate.