Gray Ritter Graham Investigating Release of Unapproved Genetically Modified Wheat

Gray Ritter Graham is currently investigating reports of the release of unapproved genetically modified wheat. The USDA announced earlier this week that unapproved genetically modified wheat designed to resist certain herbicide has been found in a field in Oregon. The GMO wheat appears to be a strain designed by Monsanto and field tested in numerous states between 1998 and 2005. While the USDA has stated that the wheat does not pose a risk to health, no genetically modified wheat has been approved for commercial use or sale in the United States or elsewhere. Wheat is a major agricultural export for the United States. News of the presence of GMO wheat in Oregon has resulted in swift reaction from overseas importers including Japan, South Korea and the European Union and threatens to impact wheat prices to the detriment of U.S. wheat farmers.

GRG has extensive experience representing farmers and others in the agricultural industry, including litigation related to unauthorized release of genetically modified crops. We successfully represented hundreds of farmers and acted as co-lead counsel in federal court lawsuits related to a similar unauthorized release of genetically modified rice into the commercial rice supply. That litigation resulted in a $750 million global settlement for rice farmers.

If you are a wheat farmer and would like to discuss any claims you may have related to the release of genetically modified wheat, or if you have any information related to the release of genetically modified wheat, we would like to speak with you. You may contact Don Downing of our office by calling (314) 241-5620 or toll free at 1-800-451-2950. To email Don Downing: ddowning@grgpc.com