Monsanto Company (Press Release)

Monsanto Company Announces
Major U.K. Information Programme
on Food Biotechnology

Monsanto, the life sciences company will tomorrow (Sat 6 June) launch a major UK-wide information programme on food produced by modern biotechnology. The aim of the programme is to provide consumers with the information they need to make informed decisions about these new life sciences products.

The programme will include national newspaper advertisements, a freephone hotline (0800 092 0401) and a consumer website (www.monsanto.co.uk). Leaflets and other material on genetically modified foods, like soya and maize will also be available.

Bob Shapiro, Monsanto's Chief Executive said: "Our feedback from the food industry and consumer groups tells us that the British public wants an open, honest and fully informed discussion about this new technology.

"We know that providing as much information as possible about the science and the benefits that it produces for consumers, farmers and the environment is helpful to this discussion. That is why we have undertaken this information programme."

The information programme will explain the scientific research and development of these new products and the scrutiny with which genetically modified food is regulated around the world.

In the UK, up to seven scientific committees and four government departments are involved in approving genetically modified crops. Research into agricultural biotechnology is now almost 20 years old, during which time there have been over 20,000 field trials worldwide of genetically modified crops to establish their safety.

The programme will also explain the benefits of biotechnology. These include substantial reductions in insecticide use, new products like oil seeds with less saturated fat, maize and soya with higher protein and naturally coloured cotton, which eliminates the need for dyes.

"It is now time to recognise the huge benefits which genetically modified crops can bring to farmers, the food industry and consumers. After twenty years of research and scientific scrutiny, this versatile and safe technology is finally delivering economic and environmental promise" said Professor Michael A. Wilson, Deputy Director, Scottish Crop Institute.

Monsanto's UK information programme is the first major attempt to inform the public of plant biotechnology. "We recognise the needs of British consumers and will continue to provide information and advice on genetically modified food as long as there is a demand" explained Ann Foster, Monsanto's UK Director of Government and Public Affairs.

As a life sciences company, Monsanto is committed to finding solutions to the growing global need for food and health by sharing common forms of science and technology among agriculture, nutrition and health. The company's 21,900 employees worldwide make and market high-value agricultural products, pharmaceuticals and food ingredients.