It also alleges that Monsanto formed a worldwide cartel to monopolize the market for seeds. Leading the charge against Monsanto is scientist, author and biotech activist Jeremy Rifkin. He compares the lawsuit to the U.S. government s antitrust case against Microsoft and the recent suit against tobacco brought by U.S. attorneys general. Rifkin says Monsanto and the other companies are trying to alter centuries-old agricultural practices by requiring farmers to sign licenses that force them to purchase genetically engineered seeds from the same company every year, and prohibit them from saving the seeds for future crops without paying for them. What this means is that if the companies get their way, no farmer in the world will ever own a seed again.
Analysts are quick to point out that the lawsuit is one of many challenges to the biotech industry.
We re seeing a critical mass building over modified foods, and Monsanto s opponents know this issue has real traction, and will just keep gathering steam. Monsanto and the biotech industry have come under considerable fire in recent months. Investors have frowned on the industry because of consumer resistance to genetically altered foods. Sales have been hurt by strong European opposition, and as more Americans learn about genetic engineering, many want labeling.