The Controversy Over Glyphosate in Ben Jerry’s Ice Cream: Sorting Fact from Fiction
Recently, there has been a heated debate surrounding the presence of glyphosate traces in Ben Jerry’s ice cream. This concern persists despite the relatively harmless nature of glyphosate. This article examines the scientific evidence, debunking myths and providing context for the public's anxiety.
Scientific Evidence on Glyphosate
Despite widespread concerns, glyphosate is not as harmful as many fear. A comprehensive study published in Regul Toxicol Pharmacol (2011) analyzed a vast body of global literature and concluded: “On cancer, respiratory conditions, diabetes, myocardial infarction, reproductive and developmental outcomes, rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid disease, and Parkinson's disease… our review found no evidence of a consistent pattern of positive associations indicating a causal relationship between any disease and exposure to glyphosate…”
Mink Mandel et al.'s Research
The study by Mink Mandel et al. (2011) provides valuable insights. They reviewed a myriad of research papers and found no direct link between glyphosate exposure and various health issues. This is a crucial point often overlooked by critics who base their arguments on older, less comprehensive data or non-peer-reviewed documents.
EU Food Safety Agency's Review
The more recent review by the EU Food Safety Agency in 2015 is even more compelling. This review evaluated a broader spectrum of data, including the controversial International Agency for Research on Cancer's (IARC) conclusion that glyphosate may be a human carcinogen. While IARC's classification might raise concerns, it is important to note that many of these studies include significant biases and are not definitive evidence of harm.
Controversial Data and Biases
One of the reasons why people are becoming concerned is the presence of glyphosate in certain foods. For example, some honey, wheat, oats, lentils, and garbanzo beans contain high levels of glyphosate, in parts-per-million (ppm) levels. However, these levels are still lower than some other common food items. Average Round Ready soybeans contain 3 ppm (3 mg/kg) of glyphosate and often higher amounts of the breakdown product, AMPA.
Impact on Ben Jerry’s and Consumer Perception
The mention of glyphosate in Ben Jerry’s ice cream reflects the company's association with environmental concerns. The brand markets itself to a demographic that values sustainable and organic products. While the actual risk is minimal, this association might trigger ingrained concerns about the company's use of chemicals, especially given its controversial history.
Monsanto and Related Companies
The concerns about glyphosate are not just about the chemical itself but also about the companies that produce and distribute it. Monsanto, Syngenta, Dow, and DuPont have a history of misinformation and health concerns. For instance, Monsanto has been accused of lying about PCBs and contributing to pollution, leading to the deaths and illnesses of many people.
Industry Propaganda and Misinformation
The methods used by these companies to maintain their image often involve significant deception. Industry-funded studies and propaganda are common tools to portray such chemicals as safe. These tactics often include citing outdated, biased studies and employing misleading logic to support their positions. The case of glyphosate and its presence in cow’s milk and human breast milk serves as a prime example of the industry's disingenuousness.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the presence of glyphosate in Ben Jerry’s ice cream may spark concern, the scientific evidence does not support a widespread health threat. The controversy reveals more about the public's mistrust of large corporations and their often-tarnished track records. It underscores the need for transparency in discussions about chemicals used in our food supply and the importance of relying on credible, contemporary scientific research.