Genetically modified corn planted in protest
Last Updated: Wednesday, August 18, 2010 | 12:50 PM ET
The Associated Press
An Italian farmer is pushing the government to allow genetically modified crops in the country by planting genetically modified corn in two fields.
Giorgio Fidenato inspects mature corn genetically altered to resist pests that just a day before had been trampled by 70 activists near Pordenone in northern Italy. (Paolo Giovannini/Associated Press) Giorgio Fidenato says the crops require fewer chemicals, produce more corn and are more profitable.
He also says his actions are legal, pointing to a decision by an administrative court in Rome. But opponents say three government agencies approved a moratorium on genetically modified crops last spring, making Fidenato's actions illegal.
Unlike the U.S., most European nations don't allow the sale of genetically modified foods.
Earlier this month, activists found one of Fidenato's corn fields and stomped the plants into the ground.
Fidenato and a small group of like-minded farmers say they won't be deterred and will keep pushing for legalization.
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