Apple news weed killer in your wine and beer
You're referring to the recent controversy surrounding the presence of a weed killer called Roundup (active ingredient: glyphosate) in some wine and beer products.
Here's a summary of the situation:
In 2019, a study by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) found that many popular wine and beer brands contained residues of glyphosate, a widely used herbicide. The study tested 45 wine and beer samples from 20 different brands and found that 31 of them contained glyphosate residues.
The EWG's findings sparked concerns among consumers, as glyphosate has been linked to potential health risks, including cancer and reproductive problems. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified glyphosate as "probably carcinogenic to humans."
In response to the controversy, many wine and beer producers have taken steps to address the issue. Some have implemented measures to reduce or eliminate glyphosate use in their vineyards and breweries, while others have committed to testing their products for glyphosate residues.
Some notable examples of companies that have taken action include:
- E. & J. Gallo Winery: The company has announced that it will no longer use glyphosate in its vineyards.
- Constellation Brands: The company has committed to reducing its use of glyphosate and has implemented a testing program to detect residues in its products.
- MillerCoors: The brewery has announced that it will no longer use glyphosate in its barley fields.
- Heineken: The company has committed to reducing its use of glyphosate and has implemented a testing program to detect residues in its products.
It's worth noting that the levels of glyphosate residues found in wine and beer are generally considered to be very low, and many experts argue that the risks associated with consuming these residues are minimal. However, the controversy has raised important questions about the use of pesticides in agriculture and the need for greater transparency and regulation in the food and beverage industry.
If you're concerned about glyphosate residues in your wine and beer, you may want to consider the following:
- Look for products that have been certified as glyphosate-free by organizations like the Non-GMO Project or the Organic Crop Improvement Association.
- Choose products from companies that have committed to reducing or eliminating glyphosate use in their operations.
- Consider purchasing products from smaller, local breweries or wineries that may be more likely to use organic or sustainable farming practices.
- Contact your local representatives and express your concerns about the use of glyphosate in agriculture and the need for greater regulation and transparency in the food and beverage industry.
Remember that while glyphosate residues in wine and beer may be a concern, they are just one aspect of a larger issue surrounding the use of pesticides in agriculture. By staying informed and advocating for change, we can work towards a safer and more sustainable food system.