Why genetically modified wheat is bad for the U.S. economy

A farmer in Oregon found something unexpected on his farm. Now America's $8.1 billion wheat business is at risk

Wheat
(Image credit: Ian Waldie/Getty Images)

A farmer in Oregon was puzzled when some wheat that had sprouted on his property wouldn't die after being sprayed with Roundup. After testing, the mystery was solved: The wheat was genetically modified by Monsanto, the same agri-giant that produces Roundup.

The discovery could cost the United States a significant part of its $8.1 billion in wheat exports. Officials from the Department of Agriculture are looking into whether modified wheat — which was tested in 16 states by Monsanto from 1998 to 2005 — has found its way into the food supply.

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Keith Wagstaff is a staff writer at TheWeek.com covering politics and current events. He has previously written for such publications as TIME, Details, VICE, and the Village Voice.