Prospects dim on settlement over remaining claims in suit over genetically engineered wheat

Prospects are dimming for a settlement on remaining claims in lawsuits over the May 2013 discovery of genetically engineered Monsanto wheat in an Oregon field.

A joint status report submitted Friday in U.S. District Court in Kansas said no agreement has been reached in the lawsuits filed by non-soft white wheat plaintiffs against St. Louis-based Monsanto Co. The lawsuits from across the country have been consolidated in Kansas.

Growers of soft white wheat who sued apparently have reached a tentative deal with the company.

The report said the remaining parties will continue to discuss an amicable resolution, but do not believe any agreement will be reached soon.

The parties suggested the court vacate its earlier order staying proceedings. Monsanto has filed several pending motions seeking to dismiss the cases.