Attorney Bill Marler Talks Criminal Prosecution Of Food CEOs

Bill Marler discusses the criminal prosecution of Stewart Parnell, former CEO of Peanut Corporation of America and former USDA Peanut Board member, explaining why food CEOs across the country are paying close attention to the landmark case. The PCA salmonella outbreak resulted in rare criminal charges—Parnell was ultimately sentenced to 28 years in prison for knowingly shipping contaminated products. The interview also explores the controversial appointment of Michael Taylor as FDA Food Safety Czar, given Taylor's background as former Vice President of Public Policy for Monsanto. Questions arise about potential conflicts of interest as scientists and concerned citizens raise concerns about GMO seeds and glyphosate products—including Monsanto's RoundUp-ready crops engineered to withstand unlimited glyphosate spraying on plants later consumed by humans and livestock. Marler, best known for the Jack in the Box lawsuit representing children who suffered E. coli poisoning, provides perspective on accountability at the highest levels of food companies and the implications of industry executives moving into regulatory positions.