Glyphosate Safety Update
Use of the herbicide glyphosate has skyrocketed, as genetically modified organism (GMO) crops, such as corn and soybeans, which are tolerant to this herbicide, have come into widespread cultivation. These crops and some non-GMO crops (oats, wheat) are also sometimes sprayed late in the growing season to accelerate drying, raising concerns that they contain high levels of glyphosate.
Is Glyphosate Safe? The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) currently lists glyphosate as “not likely to be carcinogenic in humans.” And a new EPA review (due this spring) is expected to list glyphosate the same way. While there is no strong evidence of health concerns, disputes over other potential risks have contributed to concerns among some organizations, such as the Natural Resources Defense Council, and consumer groups such as the Institute for Responsible Technology. These concerns include:
► Differences in Data Interpretation. Some experts interpret research findings on cancer differently, leav-ing some concern over the potential for glyphosate to result in genetic damage via multiple pathways, including oxidative damage to liver and kidneys.
► Other Side Effects. Studies have hinted at other potential health effects, such as liver and kidney dam-age, and disruption of the endocrine system and gut microbiome.
► Outdated Toxicology Tests. Some experts raise criticism that traditional toxicology tests are outdated and cannot detect the harm done by glyphosates.
► Failure to Test Actual Formulations. Manufacturers are creating new, more potent formulas that combine herbicides and other chemicals, such as surfactants, that increase potency and absorption and are more toxic than glyphosate alone. But most of the testing done is on glyphosate alone. EPA initially gave approval to one new combination herbicide product, Dow’s Enlist Duo, but then asked the court to remove approval based on new study findings.
► Lack of Strong Population Studies. The lack of this research on glyphosate and health outcomes further confounds the issue.
► Environmental Concerns. Some studies suggest the chemical persists in the environment longer than previously thought, and that it may disrupt water and soil ecosystems.
The Future. The FDA reports it will begin to test certain foods for glyphosate residues, after some independent groups, including the Organic Consumers Association, conducted their own testing and found glyphosate in an array of food products, including flour, cereal, oats, beans, barley and honey. And the forth-coming EPA review will address all health aspects, cancer, and environmental risks. Whether it will put concerns to rest is anyone’s guess, but the EPA review can call for more research in areas of dispute.
Questions remain on the safety of glyphosate, and even the experts don’t agree on its health risks. If you want to reduce your exposure to glyphosate, stick with organically-grown versions of the crops most likely to be heavily sprayed: corn, soybean, canola, and sugar beets.
—Gale Maleskey, MS, RD
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