Monsanto

Monsanto Company was an American multinational agrochemical and agricultural biotechnology corporation based in St. Louis, Missouri. It was founded in 1901 by John Francis Queeny, who named the company after his wife, Olga Monsanto, as a producer of saccharin and later expanded into chemicals and agricultural products. Over the 20th century it grew into a leading supplier of crop protection products and, later, genetically engineered seeds.

In the late 20th century Monsanto became a major innovator in plant genetics and crop protection. It developed genetically engineered crops, including herbicide-tolerant Roundup Ready soybeans and corn, and produced Bt traits to control pests. Its Roundup herbicide, containing the active ingredient glyphosate, became one of the most widely used products in modern farming. The company marketed integrated seed traits and associated herbicides as part of its flagship biotechnology strategy.

Intellectual property and farming practices: Monsanto pursued patents on seeds and genetic traits and took legal action against farmers who saved or replanted patented seeds without a license. In Canada, the 2004 Supreme Court decision Monsanto Canada Inc. v. Schmeiser upheld the validity of the patent and found infringement where a farmer saved and planted seed containing the patented trait.

Controversies and regulatory status: Monsanto faced ongoing criticism over GMO safety, environmental and biodiversity concerns, and issues surrounding corporate control of seeds. Glyphosate-related litigation became a prominent aspect of its public profile, with thousands of claims alleging cancer risk and resulting settlements and settlements in various jurisdictions. Regulatory status of glyphosate and GM crops has remained a focal point of debate.

Corporate history and merger: In 2018, Bayer AG completed its acquisition of Monsanto for about $63 billion, integrating Monsanto’s products and technologies into Bayer’s Crop Science division. The Monsanto name continues to be used for some products and legacy research within the broader Bayer organization.

Global footprint and legacy: Monsanto’s products and methods contributed to the spread of GM crops and modern agronomic practices, while regulatory and public opinion debates continue to shape its lasting impact.