Glyphosate is the world’s most widely used weedkiller, sprayed across millions of acres every year. Designed to destroy unwanted weeds and grass so that crops thrive, it is marketed as a farmer’s ally.

But is it really that simple?
The truth is darker. Glyphosate is one of the most controversial chemicals in agriculture, linked to cancer, environmental damage, and biodiversity loss. So much so that it is either banned or restricted in several countries worldwide.

The Weedkiller Poison Impacting Our Food & Health

What is Glyphosate?

Chemically, Glyphosate is a broad-spectrum, systemic herbicide and crop desiccant. Its scientific name is N-(phosphonomethyl)glycine, and it belongs to the organophosphorus compound family (phosphonates).

It works by choking unwanted plants to death, ensuring only the main crop survives. While this may sound efficient, the impact goes far beyond weeds, it contaminates soil, water, air, and the food we eat.


Why is Glyphosate Dangerous?

The World Health Organization’s cancer agency (IARC) declared in 2015 that Glyphosate is a probable human carcinogen. Since then, debate has raged globally about its risks and regulation.

Health Risks of Glyphosate Exposure:

  • Cancer: Classified as a probable carcinogen.
  • Neurological disorders: Linked with Parkinson’s disease.
  • Reproductive & birth issues: Studies associate it’s exposure with adverse birth outcomes.
  • Cardiovascular problems: Potential long-term health damage.

Environmental Impact:

  • Destroys biodiversity around fields, disrupting ecosystems.
  • Contaminates soil, air, and water.
  • Kills essential micro-organisms that support healthy soil.

The Use in India: The Ground Reality

In India, this widely used weedkiller was approved only for tea crops and non-crop areas (like pathways and fields). States like Assam, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu and Kerala, known for tea plantations, were its primary users.

However, government data paints a different picture:

  • Uttar Pradesh consumed the highest amount in 2020–21, accounting for 89% of all glyphosate use, despite not being a tea-growing state.
  • Other high-use states included Gujarat (2.9%), J&K (2.6%), Tamil Nadu (2%), Assam (1.6%), Madhya Pradesh (0.9%).

Today, around 35 brands of such kinds of pesticides are available in India, with names like Allkill, Azad, and Gladiator, a reflection of their destructive power.

Government Restrictions (2022):

  • In October 2022, the Government of India restricted this chemical’s use.
  • Only Pest Control Operators (PCOs) are permitted to apply it.
  • Labels on these pesticide products must carry clear safety instructions.

Despite this, this chemical remains widely available, with products like Roundup, Dhanuka Noweed Glyphosate 41% SL, and Jaikisan’s Glyphos still being sold.

Where is Glyphosate Banned Globally?

  • France, Netherlands, Belgium: Banned for household use.
  • Germany: Initially considered a complete ban, later restricted its use.
  • European Union: Continues to debate stricter regulations.

Many countries restrict such pesticides to protect farmers, consumers and the environment.

Glyphosate: The Hidden Weedkiller Poison in Our Food Plate

What Can We Do as Consumers?

We may not be able to control government policies, but we can control what goes on our plates.

  • Choose Organic Produce: By buying organic, you directly support farmers who avoid chemicals like these.
  • Support Sustainable Agriculture: Encourage farming methods that focus on soil health, biodiversity, and long-term ecological balance.
  • Advocate for Change: Speak up in community groups, policy forums, and with lawmakers to push for a total ban on such herbicides/ pesticides.
  • Raise Awareness: Share credible information about it’s dangers so more consumers demand chemical-free food.

Why Organic is the Answer?

The simplest way to ban such toxic chemicals from your life is to choose organic food. When farmers and consumers commit to organic, harmful chemicals automatically disappear from our farms, our soil, and our food.

At Eat Right Basket, we stand for food that nourishes without poisoning. Our certified organic fruits, vegetables, staples, and snacks are 100% chemical-free, ensuring you and your family eat safe, clean, and natural.

References

  1. International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), 2015 – Glyphosate.
  2. Samsel, A., & Seneff, S. (2013). Glyphosate, pathways to modern diseases II: Celiac sprue and gluten intolerance. Interdisciplinary Toxicology, 6(4), 159-166.
  3. Parvez, S., et al. (2018). Glyphosate exposure in pregnancy and risk of adverse birth outcomes. Environmental Health Perspectives, 126(12), 125001.
  4. Gui, Y., et al. (2018). Glyphosate exposure and risk of Parkinson’s disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Environmental Research, 165, 301-308.
  5. Down to Earth Reports on Glyphosate Use in India.
  6. WebMD on Glyphosate
  7. Healthy & Natural World – Glyphosate in Food List