Swindled 50. The Octopus (United Fruit Company)
Jul 6, 2020
Dive into the bloody and exploitative history of a colossal banana company. Discover the devastating legacy of a harmful pesticide that plagued Central American workers. Uncover the dark connections between corporate power and political unrest in Latin America, marked by violence and manipulation. Learn about the infamous United Fruit Company and its transformation into Chiquita, revealing a web of ethical scandals. Explore the repercussions of corporate negligence and the ongoing fight for justice faced by those affected.
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DBCP Sterility
- DBCP, a pesticide developed by Dow and Shell, was found to cause sterility in factory workers.
- Despite prior studies showing harmful effects on animals, it was approved for sale.
Continued DBCP Use
- Despite a US ban, companies continued using DBCP in foreign banana plantations.
- Dow provided remaining stock to Standard Fruit (Dole) due to contract obligations.
Initial Lawsuits and Settlements
- Banana workers sued Dow, Shell, Occidental, Chiquita, and Dole over DBCP exposure.
- All companies except Dole settled for $41 million in 1997.