Do Monsanto Corn Products Reduce Fertility in Mice?
On November 11, 2008 the Austrian Federal Ministry for Health, Family and Youth released a report on three studies assessing the impact of biotech corn on reproduction.
Of the three studies, only one showed potential impacts of GM corn. One of this study’s authors, Dr. Zentek, summarized the findings to state that "Mice fed with GM maize had less offspring in the third and fourth generations, and these differences were statistically significant. Mice fed with non-GM maize reproduced more efficiently." The GM corn tested contained both MON 810 (Bt/insect resistance) and NK603 (Roundup Ready®) traits.
At the time of the release, the study had not been subject to peer- review by qualified, scientific experts. During his presentation, Dr. Zentek commented that the studies showed inconsistent results, and should be considered preliminary.
Despite both the preliminary nature of the findings, and the cautions by the study author, both Greenpeace and the Center for Food Safety issued press statements within 24 hours of the release. Both called for immediate and dramatic changes to the oversight of GM crops and foods. Their demands are not supported by sound science or common sense. Both groups have cried “wolf” before when preliminary study data has shown potential problems with GM crops. In every case, subsequent review has upheld the safety of GM crops and food.
To base any conclusions on the preliminary findings of the Austrian study is irresponsible. This is especially true when the broader body of scientific evidence indicates there are no effects of these products on reproduction. Several reproductive toxicity studies have previously been conducted with these products. None of the findings suggested negative effects. More than 20 regulatory authorities worldwide have determined that MON 810, NK 603 and the stacked product containing both traits are as safe as conventional corn.
At Monsanto’s request, two internationally recognized experts on reproductive toxicology have reviewed the online report:
- Dr. John DeSesso, Senior Fellow at the non-profit group Noblis and on the Editorial Board of the journal, Reproductive Toxicology.
- Dr. James Lamb, currently of The Weinberg Group. Dr. Lamb developed the type of study used by the Austrian researchers while at U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, National Toxicology Program.
Doctors Lamb and DeSesso have both concluded that 1) there are flaws in the study reporting and analysis which bring serious question to the validity of the findings and 2) that the results do not support any conclusion of adverse effects on reproductive performance. A review by Monsanto scientists resulted in the same conclusion.
Monsanto looks forward to further discussion among the scientific community. We are confident that once this study goes through a thorough scientific review that it will ultimately serve to help reinforce the safety of GM crops and food.
Update: The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) Scientific Panel on Genetically Modified Organisms reviewed the study on December 3-4. The panel concluded that “On the basis of the data presented the GMO Panel is of the opinion that no conclusions can be drawn from the report.”
Useful Links on this topic:
- Monsanto’s statement on safety allegations related to transgenic maize NK603 X MON 810
- Independent Scientists Determine Study Conclusions are Flawed
- Monsanto's technical response to Austrian mouse study
- Review of Zentek paper on GMObelus
- CropGen commentary
- Austrian mouse study raises questions
