It was an inevitable development and something biologists warned about when genetically-modified seeds and plants were approved for agricutural use. The EPA is sounding warnings about pest resistence to genetically engineered corn. The agency is expected to set limits on the the amount of genetically modified corn that can be grown domestically despite criticism from corporate GMO developers. Corn rootworm has evolved to become the most expensive threat to corn crops in the US. It is stronger and more numerous than ever before.
The emergence of highly resistent corn pests is a bit of a Catch-22 for the federal government that has spent $84 billion between 1995 and 2012 subsidizing farmers to plant corn regardless of prices. Most of the money goes to big agribusinesses that grow basic crop commodities such as corn, wheat, soy and cotton. With the recent rise in commodity prices, those government subsidies are banked as extra profits. Isn't capitalism wonderful?
European countries are increasely accepting the message that frankenfoods are not a good thing. Germany is following nearly independent Scotland in opting for a ban on GMOs. According to Germany's agricultural minister, the nation will persist with a ban it announced in August. EU countries have until October 3rd to opt out of EU approved genetically engineered organisms. More countries are expected to opt out of permitting GMO use.