Tim and HB, going to have to be quick as just off to the pictures with Mrs Nigel .
Tim, would never suggest anyone genetically related to you would be even capable of being brainwashed , nor did I imply it - your bio-solids point doesn't add or take away really, I was referring to GM , intensive fertilisers and pesticides , bio-solids are none of these.
Re your " If it is supermarkets shaping the market, doesn't that contradict what you write at the beginning of this post - that a monopoly has been given to producers?" In a word no - supermarkets shape the market (ie stimulate demand for things that are easy to produce, have long shelf life , added value and high profit ) and the increasing role of the agribusiness companies tends to increase the monopoly of the few in terms of means of production . Land grabs, huge influence with government and IP (intellectual property ) rights including Doomsday Seeds but also untold other patenting assaults on the small producer. Finally, HB , at the risk of disagreeing with you , with all that entails, I have to say if you think any GM company is going to let you pick and choose what bits you take then think again . The whole agribusiness is staked on building dependence (the so called "treadmill effect") and leaving producers no choice but to cosy up and buy there poisonous filth.
No subliminal reference to Tesco or other supermarket intended.
Good evening
Nigel