Glyphosate in Food: The Hidden Dangers and Health Risks

While humans do not have this pathway, glyphosate exposure can still have harmful effects on health and the environment. Found in everything from grains to fruits and vegetables, glyphosate residues persist in food, soil, and water, raising questions about its long-term impact.

How Glyphosate in Food Affects Human Health

1. Glyphosate and Cancer Risks

One of the most alarming concerns about glyphosate in food is its potential link to cancer. In 2015, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified glyphosate as “probably carcinogenic to humans”, citing evidence linking exposure to non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

Although regulatory agencies such as the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) claim that glyphosate is safe when used correctly, growing independent research continues to challenge this stance.

2. Glyphosate Health Risks and Endocrine Disruption

Glyphosate is also suspected to be an endocrine disruptor, meaning it interferes with hormone function. Even at low exposure levels, it may:

• Mimic or block hormonal activity, affecting reproductive health.
• Disrupt thyroid function, leading to metabolic disorders.
• Increase the risk of infertility and developmental issues.

Long-term exposure to glyphosate in food has been linked to hormonal imbalances that could contribute to conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and early puberty.

3. Glyphosate and Gut Health: A Silent Disruptor

Many people don’t realise that glyphosate may also harm gut health. Because it targets bacteria via the shikimic acid pathway, it can disrupt the balance of gut microbiota, leading to:

• Reduced beneficial bacteria, affecting digestion and immune function.
• Increased harmful bacteria, contributing to gut inflammation and leaky gut syndrome.
• Negative effects on mental health, as the gut microbiome plays a role in serotonin production.

Emerging research suggests a connection between glyphosate in food and digestive disorders, obesity, and autoimmune conditions.

4. Neurological Effects of Glyphosate Exposure

Another glyphosate health risk is its potential effect on the nervous system. Some studies indicate that exposure may contribute to oxidative stress and neuroinflammation, increasing the risk of:

• Parkinson’s disease
• Alzheimer’s disease
• Autism spectrum disorders (ASD)

Pregnant women and children may be particularly vulnerable, as even low levels of glyphosate in food could affect cognitive development.

Environmental Impact of Glyphosate in Food Production

1. Soil Health and Nutrient Depletion

Glyphosate residues can remain in the soil for long periods, reducing microbial diversity and depleting essential nutrients in crops. This can lead to:

• Poor soil fertility, making crops more dependent on synthetic fertilisers.
• Lower nutritional value in food, affecting human health over time.

2. Water Contamination and Ecosystem Damage

Glyphosate runoff from farms enters rivers, lakes, and groundwater, affecting aquatic life. Research shows it disrupts fish development, harms amphibians, and alters marine ecosystems.

3. Glyphosate and Biodiversity Loss

The non-selective nature of glyphosate means it kills all plants, not just weeds. This leads to:

• Habitat destruction for pollinators, including bees and butterflies.
• Reduced food sources for wildlife, contributing to ecosystem imbalances.

Studies have found glyphosate residues in honey and pollen, raising concerns about pollinator population decline.

How to Avoid Glyphosate in Food

1. Choose Glyphosate-Free Products

Look for organic or glyphosate-free labels when buying grains, legumes, and fresh produce. While organic certification doesn’t guarantee zero pesticide exposure, it significantly reduces glyphosate contamination.

2. Wash and Peel Fresh Produce

Rinsing fruits and vegetables with vinegar or baking soda can reduce pesticide residues, though it may not eliminate all traces of glyphosate.

3. Support Regenerative Farming Practices

Regenerative agriculture focuses on soil health and biodiversity, reducing reliance on chemical herbicides. Supporting local farmers who use sustainable methods can help minimise glyphosate use.

4. Consider Alternative Weed Control Methods

For home gardening, opt for natural herbicides, crop rotation, and mulching instead of chemical-based solutions. There are many glyphosate alternatives available, such as:

• Vinegar-based herbicides
• Flame weeding
• Cover cropping

Conclusion

The evidence surrounding glyphosate in food raises serious concerns about its impact on human health, gut microbiome, and the environment. With potential links to cancer, hormonal disruption, digestive disorders, and biodiversity loss, reducing exposure is crucial.

Choosing glyphosate-free products, supporting sustainable farming, and staying informed are proactive steps toward minimising health risks and protecting the planet.

For more insights on overall health, check out “The Science of Health” section.