Glyphosate, the active ingredient in widely used herbicides like Roundup, has become a growing concern for consumers. With studies showing widespread exposure and potential health risks, many are looking for ways to minimize their intake. This guide provides actionable steps and information on How To Remove Glyphosate From Food, empowering you to make informed choices for a healthier diet.
Glyphosate-based herbicides (GBHs) were introduced in 1974, and initial tests suggested low risks to humans. Consequently, regulatory agencies set high acceptable exposure limits. However, since the late 1970s, the amount of glyphosate used on crops has increased dramatically, leading to greater exposure. The introduction of glyphosate-resistant crops in 1996 further exacerbated this issue, making Roundup the most used herbicide worldwide.
Farmers utilize herbicides like Roundup for their efficacy in controlling weeds, which can severely damage crops. Glyphosate-resistant crops are engineered to withstand the herbicide, allowing farmers to eliminate weeds effectively.
Alt text: Infographic showing common foods that may contain glyphosate residues.
Understanding the Glyphosate Debate: Is it Dangerous?
The safety of glyphosate is a topic of ongoing debate. While some organizations have raised concerns, others maintain its safety when used as directed.
In 2016, the World Health Organization (WHO) classified glyphosate as “probably carcinogenic to humans.” Conversely, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has consistently stated that its scientists have found that “glyphosate is not likely to be carcinogenic to humans.”
These conflicting viewpoints highlight the need for more research to fully understand the long-term effects of glyphosate exposure.
Interestingly, Bayer, the company that owns Roundup, announced in 2021 that it would stop selling Roundup for residential use in 2023, citing risks to farmworkers and consumers as the primary reason. This decision followed a lawsuit where Bayer was ordered to pay over $80 million to a man who claimed Roundup caused his non-Hodgkin lymphoma. These events underscore the importance of taking proactive steps to minimize your exposure to glyphosate.
Practical Tips on How to Remove Glyphosate from Food
Here are four immediately actionable strategies to reduce your glyphosate intake:
Alt text: Glyphosate Residue Free certification logo for consumers seeking glyphosate-free food products.
1. Prioritize Glyphosate Residue Free Labeled Products
The Detox Project offers a certification process that verifies products are free from glyphosate contamination. This certification involves rigorous testing by an accredited third-party laboratory to ensure products meet strict standards for glyphosate residues. Look for the “Glyphosate Residue Free” label when shopping to identify certified products.
2. Consult Lists of Certified Glyphosate-Free Products
The Detox Project maintains a list of certified Glyphosate Residue Free products. Reviewing this list can help you find suitable alternatives to products you wish to avoid. This is a convenient way to identify brands and products that prioritize glyphosate-free practices.
3. Choose Organic Foods as Often as Possible
Organic produce is grown without synthetic herbicides or pesticides, including glyphosate. While eating organic may not eliminate exposure completely, it can significantly reduce it. Studies suggest that switching to an all-organic diet, even for a short period, can lower glyphosate levels in the body. One study found a 70% reduction in glyphosate levels after just six days of eating an all-organic diet.
4. Avoid Using Weed Killers in Your Garden
If you grow your own produce, avoid using Roundup or other glyphosate-based weed killers. Explore organic alternatives or DIY recipes for weed control. There are many effective, non-toxic solutions available that can help you maintain a healthy garden without exposing yourself to glyphosate.
Glyphosate in Food: Which Foods to Watch Out For
Certain foods are more likely to contain glyphosate residues due to the way they are grown and processed. Being aware of these foods can help you make informed choices.
Alt text: Illustration depicting three food categories most likely contaminated with glyphosate.
A study by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) found glyphosate in over 95% of oat-based food samples. Cereals marketed to children were identified as particularly contaminated. The EWG used a benchmark of 160 parts per billion (ppb) for children’s glyphosate consumption.
Foods with High Glyphosate Levels (Based on EWG Study):
- Honey Nut Cheerios Medley Crunch (833 ppb)
- Nature Valley Crunchy Granola Bars, Maple Brown Sugar (566 ppb)
- Nature Valley Granola Cups, Almond Butter (529 ppb)
- Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheerios (400 ppb)
- Nature Valley Baked Oat Bites (389 ppb)
- Nature Valley Crunchy Granola Bars, Oats and Honey (320 ppb)
- Nature Valley Crunchy Granola Bars, Peanut Butter (312 ppb)
- Nature Valley Granola Cups, Peanut Butter Chocolate (297 ppb)
- Nature Valley Fruit & Nut Chewy Trail Mix Granola Bars, Dark Chocolate Cherry (275 ppb)
- Nature Valley Protein Granola, Oats and Dark Chocolate (261 ppb)
- Multi Grain Cheerios (216 ppb)
- Nature Valley Soft-Baked Oatmeal Squares, Blueberry (206 ppb)
- Fiber One Soft-Baked Cookies, Oatmeal Raisin (204 ppb)
- Nature Valley Granola, Peanut Butter Creamy & Crunchy (198 ppb)
- Nature Valley Biscuits with Almond Butter (194 ppb)
Prioritize These Safest, Poison-Free Foods
To minimize your exposure, focus on incorporating foods with the lowest pesticide residues into your diet.
The Environmental Working Group (EWG) publishes an annual “Clean Fifteen” list, which identifies fruits and vegetables with the lowest amounts of pesticide residues, based on USDA data. In 2022, nearly 70% of the samples on this list had zero detectable pesticide residues.
The 2022 Clean Fifteen:
- Avocados
- Sweet corn
- Pineapple
- Onions
- Papaya
- Sweet peas (frozen)
- Asparagus
- Honeydew melon
- Kiwi
- Cabbage
- Mushrooms
- Cantaloupe
- Mangoes
- Watermelon
- Sweet potatoes
By prioritizing these foods and following the tips outlined above, you can significantly reduce your glyphosate exposure.
Conclusion: Taking Control of Your Glyphosate Intake
Learning how to remove glyphosate from food empowers you to protect yourself and your family from potential health risks. By making informed choices about the food you buy and consume, you can minimize your exposure to this controversial herbicide. While the health effects of glyphosate are still being studied, taking proactive steps to reduce your intake is a prudent approach to safeguarding your health.
