Topic: Genetically Modified Organisms

Biotech company Oxitec has released millions of genetically engineered male Aedes aegypti mosquitoes in the Florida Keys to combat disease spread. The EPA recently approved the release of an additional 2.4 billion modified bugs in California and Monroe County, Florida. These lab-created insects carry a self-limiting gene designed to kill female offspring before they reach maturity, though critics remain concerned about long-term environmental impacts.

The discussion covers the rebranding of "genetically modified" foods as "genetically enhanced" and the FDA's analysis of engineered fish. The hosts revisit Monsanto's history of suing journalists and dairy producers over BST labeling. They argue that food companies use the First Amendment to fight mandatory labeling of GMO products.

The FDA evaluates the approval of genetically engineered salmon that grows at twice the normal rate. This marks the first time a genetically modified animal would be approved for human consumption in the United States.

A new company called iKorn appears to be a marketing front for Monsanto, utilizing Web 2.0 branding to sell genetically modified soybeans and corn. The website features specific strains like 104.7R, a Roundup Ready corn that matures in exactly 104 days. While initially suspected to be a hoax due to its elaborate design, the entity is registered in Cicero, Indiana, and maintains ties to Oregon State University.

The documentary "The World According to Monsanto" explores the health risks of Roundup Ready crops and alleges the suppression of critical research. Critics claim the film has been kept off mainstream television stations like PBS, finding a home only on alternative platforms and the internet.

Curry and Dvorak explore theories regarding the origin of the H1N1 strain, including potential links to Monsanto's genetically modified pigs in Germany. They reference reports from Infowars and NPR suggesting the virus contains a unique combination of pig, bird, and human genetic material. The hosts speculate that the virus may have been engineered in a laboratory setting rather than occurring naturally.