Talking Biotech with Dr. Kevin Folta Correcting the Veratasium Glyphosate - Monsanto Episode
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Sep 6, 2025 The podcast dives into the controversies surrounding glyphosate and its connection to major agricultural companies. It critiques a sensationalized science communication episode that inaccurately ties glyphosate to cancer fears. The discussion highlights the complexities farmers face with herbicide regulations and seed choices. It also examines the shifting safety classification of glyphosate by regulatory bodies. The episode emphasizes the importance of peer-reviewed research in countering misinformation and maintaining scientific integrity.
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Narrative Can Trump Evidence
- Science communicators can make major mistakes by prioritizing narrative over data.
- Kevin Folta warns Veritasium drifted into emotion and poor sourcing on glyphosate.
Why Seed Contracts Exist
- Folta recounts seed contracts preventing farmers from saving or reselling patented seed.
- He explains licensing exists because developing technology costs millions and companies must recoup investment.
Adoption Driven By Utility Not Coercion
- Glyphosate rarely drifts as a spray mist unless applied improperly.
- Folta says adoption of Roundup-Ready seed was driven by performance, not neighbor coercion.
