Monsanto Seeks Injunction Against German Ban

BERLIN (AP) — Monsanto Co., the world's leading seed seller, is seeking a court injunction and suing the German government for banning its genetically engineered MON810 corn.

Braunschweig administrative court spokesman Torsten Baumgarten said in a statement Wednesday that the Agriculture Ministry was named as defendant in both cases.

Agriculture Minister Ilse Aigner last week banned the sale and planting of the genetically altered seeds saying they present a danger for the environment.

In 2004, the European Union authorized the planting of MON810 seeds, which produce a toxin to ward off insects.

St. Louis, Missouri-based Monsanto claims this genetic trait reduces the need for chemical pesticides. Opponents fear the seeds will spread and alter the natural surroundings.

The injunction seeks to lift the ban temporarily pending the outcome of a suit asking for its permanent reversal.