By Ruth Kava, Ph.D., R.D.
Posted: Sunday, December 26, 1999

LETTER
Publication Date: December 26, 1999

Your article "Monsanto and Pharmacia to Join, Creating a Pharmaceutical Giant" (front page, Dec. 20) states that Monsanto has been under attack in Europe and in the United States for developing genetically modified crops that are substantially superior to regular varieties.

While opponents of genetically modified products fan the flames of public fear of use of such crops, the truth is that they do not threaten food safety, and in fact hold much promise for present and future generations.

The real basis for the opposition is anger at agricultural business practices. Consumers should not confuse that with real threats to food safety.

Source Notes:  
Published in the New York Times—December 26, 1999