Toxic Element from the Vietnam War to Threaten American Farms

A hazardous compound utilized as a key element in designing a lethal weapon used during the Vietnam war could end up in American farms, if a controversial petition is approved by the government.

Apparently, Dow AgroScience, LLC is asking the American Government to deregulate a species of genetically engineered corn that is resistant to 2,4-D, a hazardous element employed on a large scale to manufacture Agent Orange, counting as a powerful "Weapon of Mass Destruction” (WMD), according to an article published by NaturalNews.

The American government's decision has important consequences on the health of residents and the quality of crops.

If the petition were approved, giant companies like Dow, Dupont and Monsanto would benefit from these changes, while America's farms, rivers, lakes and its entire food chain could be poisoned by thousands of gallons of toxic chemicals.

A positive response would give the green light to corn laced with 2,4-D commercialized on a large scale in supermarkets.

It is already known that only a few people are aware of the risks hidden in their own plates and that genetically engineered food is often a risky choice, but the Orange Agent threat appears to be even more appalling.

“In humans, prolonged breathing of 2,4-D causes coughing, burning, dizziness, and temporary loss of muscle coordination. Symptoms of poisoning can be fatigue and weakness with perhaps nausea,” reveals a study led by researchers from Cornell University.

“We are advising the public that the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service has received a petition from Dow AgroScience LLC seeking a determination of nonregulated status of corn designated as DAS-40278-9, which has been genetically engineered for increased resistance to broadleaf herbicides in the phenoxy auxin group (such as the herbicide 2,4-D),” indicates the Federal Register.

The Federal Register is encouraging public comments and authorized opinions posted until February 27, 2012, to determine if the genetically engineered variety of corn “is likely to pose a plant pest risk.”