Monsanto is an American multinational agrochemical and agricultural biotechnology corporation, founded in 1901. It is headquartered in Creve Coeur, Missouri, and is a leading producer of genetically engineered seed and Roundup, a herbicide. The company employs more than 20,000 people worldwide. Monsanto’s products are sold in more than 160 countries.
The company was one of the first to apply the biotechnology industry business model to agriculture, using technology developed by CEO Robert B. Shapiro while he worked at chemical giant Dupont. In its early years, Monsanto operated primarily as a manufacturer of chemical pesticides including DDT and Agent Orange used in the Vietnam War. These activities continued through the 1970s and 1980s; however, as public concern about the environmental impact of these products increased, Monsanto shifted its focus to genetically modified organisms (GMOs). The company began selling Roundup Ready genetically engineered seeds in 1996 and acquired Seminis Inc., making it the world’s largest seller of vegetable seeds.
Monsanto has been criticized for its environmental and business practices; however, it has also been lauded for its contributions to agriculture and food production.