On February 16th the Mexican Congress passed the Biosecurity of Genetically Modified Organisms Law or “Monsanto Law” as critics have described it. This new measure establishes the means through which genetically modified products can be used experimentally then eventually commercialized for exportation and internal use. This flies in the face of years of organizing that have attempted to keep GMOs out of Mexico.

Until now, it was illegal to plant GMOs but they were imported and used in processed foods (predominantly corn from the U.S.).  There was much controversy as Mexican campesinos often don’t distinguish between seeds and grain and would plant corn that was meant to be ground for tortillas.  Several years ago it was discovered that corn in isolated rural communities in Oaxaca had been contaminated by transgenic corn that had been unknowingly planted. Greenpeace Mexico has lead the defense of Mexico’s impressive varieties of crillollo corn demanding that imported transgenics be ground upon arrival to avoid accidental planting. 

Further investigation found that corn harvests in 11 Mexican states were contaminated by GMOs.  Genetically modified seeds are patented by companies like Monsanto.  They are bred to not reproduce naturally so that campesinos are forced to buy seeds from the company instead of saving seeds from their harvest to plant the following season.  Also because seeds are patented, the company can sue farmers who use seeds without purchasing them. However, it is impossible to prevent the contamination of non-GMO fields due to natural cross-pollination. 

 The new “Monsanto Law” will increase the presence of GMOs in Mexico and make it even more difficult for farmers to protect their traditional farming practices and vast diversity of corn varieties.  Corn is a historically and spiritually significant staple crop with its' origins in early indigenous cultures in central Mexico. 

Compiled from the following sources:

www.jornada.mx.unam
www.greenpeace.org/mexico