The Bush administration has added controversial language to a $770 million world food aid package that would promote the use of genetically modified crops (GMOs) in nations suffering from food shortages. The use of GMOs is a widely disputed issue in both the US and abroad, with some countries in Europe banning them entirely. Proponents say that GMOs can create higher crop yields and survive harsher climates than regular crops.

Opponents say GMOs can cause allergies and other medical problems in those who consume them. They also contend that this additional language to the food aid package is really meant to benefit agro-business firms like Monsanto, one of the biggest chemical companies in the world, and the technology provider for 90 percent of the world’s genetically engineered crops.

The World According to Monsanto 1 of 4 27min

and watch The World According to Monsanto, which paints a not-so friendly picture of the firm’s long track record of environmental and heath crimes. You can also check out the Organic Consumers’ Association Millions Against Monsanto page, which includes links to stories about Monsanto’s persecution of small farmers, PCB pollution and Agent Orange, and the controversy over Roundup pesticide.

Related:

>>Vanity Fair: Monsanto’s Harvest of Fear

>>Few Friends on Hill for Bush’s Aid Plan

>>Bush Heads Wrong Way on Global Food Crisis