Biotech Updates

Monsanto, Dole to Collaborate on Veggie Breeding

June 26, 2009

Monsanto Company and Dole Fresh Vegetables Inc. announced that they will be working together to breed vegetables that could be more attractive to consumers. The companies will focus on the nutrition, flavor, color, texture, taste and aroma of broccoli, cauliflower, lettuce and spinach. Monsanto stressed that the new varieties will not be genetically modified. New products developed from this collaboration could be commercialized by Dole in North America.

Monsanto has been expanding its vegetable business. The company acquired giant vegetable company Seminis in 2005 and the Netherlands-based De Ruiter Seeds last year.

The press release is available at http://monsanto.mediaroom.com/index.php?s=43&item=721