Glyphosate detected in the majority of oat-based food items, as per a recent study

In a recent study conducted by the Environmental Working Group (EWG), it was found that a majority of oat products exceeded the level of 160 parts per billion (ppb) of glyphosate. This herbicide, commonly used in agriculture, has been a topic of controversy due to conflicting results in studies of its carcinogenic potential.

The EWG commissioned laboratory tests on various oat-based products, including multiple brands of oats and foods containing oats. The study found traces of glyphosate in 43 out of 45 samples of products made with conventionally grown oats. Surprisingly, glyphosate was also detected in several samples of organic oats.

Quaker Foods, a major manufacturer of oat food products, has stated that any glyphosate found in oats is the result of farmers applying it pre-harvest. However, the EWG report challenges the safety levels of glyphosate for human consumption, stating that a 60 gram serving of food with a glyphosate level of 160 ppb could reach the maximum level of exposure.

The EWG claims that government regulators, specifically the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), are keeping secret the findings of glyphosate in food products. The EWG cites internal emails obtained by US Right to Know that suggest the FDA has been testing food for glyphosate for two years but has not released its findings. The article does not provide any new information about the FDA's testing of food for glyphosate or the release of its findings.

The company's statement claims that any levels of glyphosate that may remain after their rigorous cleaning process are significantly below any limits and well within compliance of the safety standards set by the EPA and the European Commission. However, the National Pesticide Information Center did not provide any specific information on the safety standards set by these regulatory bodies for human consumption of glyphosate.

It's important to note that studies of cancer rates in people have provided conflicting results, with some associating glyphosate use with Non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Monsanto, the company that makes RoundUp, has stated it will appeal the verdict, insisting that its product is safe. The National Pesticide Information Center mentions some studies that suggest glyphosate has carcinogenic potential, but these studies used very high doses in laboratory animals.

The European Economic Community (EEC) does not specify a single maximum external load limit for human consumer protection authorities; rather, relevant directive documents focus on sustainability reporting, environmental, social indicators, and risk assessments without defining a universal external load threshold.

The EWG report aims to provide consumers with information about dietary exposures to glyphosate, emphasising the need for transparency in the testing and reporting of glyphosate levels in food products. As the debate surrounding glyphosate's safety continues, consumers are encouraged to make informed choices about the products they consume.