The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) of South Africa has ordered Monsanto to withdraw its advertisement on Radio 702 with immediate effect, wherein Monsanto claims the benefits of GM crops. According to ASA, Monsanto’s claims were found to be unsubstantiated.
The African Centre for Biosafety (ACB) lodged a detailed complaint to the ASA following an advertisement on Radio 702 by Monsanto wherein they claim that GM crops “enable us to produce more food sustainably whilst using fewer resources; provide a healthier environment by saving on pesticides; decrease greenhouse gas emissions and increase crop yields substantially.” The ACB was supported in its complaint by Ms Judith Taylor from Earthlife Africa.
Monsanto was given an opportunity by ASA to respond to the ACB’s complaint. Monsanto needed to provide evidence from a credible third party expert, but was only able to provide links to documents on its own website.
We are elated with this decision. Monsanto has already been warned by the ASA as far back as 2007, that it needs to substantiate its claims from an independent and credible expert in the matter of GM Food/M Wells/ 8739 (18 June 2007) regarding its claims of the so called benefits of GM crops.
However, it appears Monsanto does not have much regard for South African law as it is hell bent on disseminating false and misleading information to the South African public.
The ASA further has warned Monsanto that “it should ensure that it holds proper substantiation for its advertising claims” or risk attracting further sanctions.
Today is a good day indeed and gives us an energy boost to continue this fight.
Congratulations from the Green Times team. Onwards greening!
Source: African Centre for Biosafety
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