Monsanto found guilty of chemical poisoning

This report is part of our former “Harmful Cases” documentation, where we continuously and concisely recorded human rights violations, violations of international law or environmental destruction caused by companies.

Health and Safety Hazards in France

Only few corporations are as controversially discussed in the international media as the US American seed company and herbicide producer Monsanto. For some, it provides a solution to the global food crisis thanks to its genetically modified (GM) seeds. For others, it has gained fame due to its transgression of ecological, ethical and public health standards.

On 14 February 2012, a French court found the corporation guilty for chemical poisoning of Paul François, a farmer from Charente, and omission of adequate warnings on its herbicides. The complainant claimed neurological problems including memory loss, headaches and stammering after inhaling “Lasso”, a Monsanto weedkiller in 2004. The farmer obtained work invalidity status only after a court appeal. The court blamed the company for not providing indications on the toxic ingredient chlorbenzene on the herbicide’s packaging. Monsanto announced to appeal the court’s decision later on.

The herbicide “Lasso” is prohibited in France since 2007.

More information under:

topagrar.com (de)

LeFigaro.fr (fr)