Herbicides are a type of pesticide used in farming and gardening to control unwanted plants. A major issue with herbicide use is that these chemicals don’t just go away after they are applied to a plant. Residues from the herbicides actually end up on the fruits, vegetables, and grains that are harvested—meaning that we eat the herbicide residues when we eat foods grown with them. Herbicide residues can also be found in sources like drinking water and dust that we breathe in from the air.
Many herbicides are glyphosate-based, which can be particularly problematic. Some health effects associated with these types of herbicides include increased cancer risk, impaired nervous system function, and the disruption of normal hormone function.
Along with avoiding direct exposure to herbicide products, consuming organic foods and drinking pure water is the best way to reduce exposure to herbicides.
Further Reading:
Learn all about the Health Risks of Herbicides
Glyphosate in Food: 6 Things You Should Know