Monsanto Creates Genetically Modified Strain of Marijuana-Fiction!
Summary of eRumor:
Monsanto has developed and patented the first genetically modified strain of marijuana.
The Truth:
Monsanto has not developed a genetically modified strain of marijuana.
The fake news website World News Daily Report fanned the rumor in April 2015 when it made that claim in a bogus article:
“Monsanto, the multi-billion agribusiness giant, has announced today it has patented the first genetically modified strain of marijuana.
“The news that has been welcomed by scientists and leaders of the agriculture business alike as a move forward towards the industrial use of marijuana and hemp products could bring a major shift towards marijuana policies in the U.S.A. and ultimately, to the world.”
The fake news report was shared more than 100,000 times on social media sites. Many believed that the report was true and sounded off on the impact that Monsanto would have on marijuana legalization efforts, and the medical marijuana industry. One commenter said:
“Big companies like Monsanto will only hurt the cannabis gene pool and business. Before you know it they will be charging a surcharge on any cannabis plant that has Monsanto’s genetic markers. They are a greedy and vile company only concerned with making money with no regard to how it affects our planet! They need to be charged and prosecuted for all the harm they have done!”
However, World News Daily Report bills itself as a satirical website, and it’s disclaimer states that it’s not responsible for “incorrect or inaccurate information.”
This isn’t the first time that rumors about Monsanto developing a genetically modified strain of marijuana have spread across the web, either.
Monsanto even addressed the rumor and said, “Monsanto has not and is not working on GMO marijuana. This allegation is an Internet rumor and lie.”