EU to investigate glyphosate’s cancer risks, a 21-month review

The European Commission has initiated a comprehensive investigation into glyphosate, the widely used herbicide, following a recent study suggesting a potential link between the chemical and increased tumor rates in rats. This inquiry is set to last nearly two years and aims to reassess the safety of glyphosate, which has faced mounting scrutiny over the years.  

In a letter dated June 24, the Commission directed the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) to conduct a thorough evaluation of the Ramazzini Institute's findings. The study raised alarms by indicating that exposure to glyphosate, even at levels considered safe under current EU regulations, may elevate tumor risk.  

The timeline for this evaluation is significant: ECHA has been allocated 15 months to review the data, followed by an additional 6 months for EFSA to deliver its updated opinion on the health implications of glyphosate. This decision comes in the wake of the latest assessment in 2023, which reauthorized glyphosate for a decade across the EU, concluding that there was "no scientific or legal justification for a ban."  

However, the recent revelations have reignited debates over the safety of glyphosate, a substance that has been a staple in agricultural practices. The Commission emphasized the necessity of obtaining all relevant data to determine if the new findings could alter the conclusions reached in the previous joint assessment conducted by ECHA and EFSA.  

Previous evaluations had concluded that glyphosate posed no significant health risks, leading to its renewed authorization until December 15, 2033. Yet, public concern remains high, prompting regulatory bodies to take a more cautious stance after this latest study.  

The Ramazzini Institute, which conducted the controversial research, had previously been asked by the EU agencies to provide raw data to support its findings. While the institute initially did not respond, its director recently expressed willingness to collaborate with regulators by sharing the necessary data upon request.  

In a demonstration of the growing unease among lawmakers regarding glyphosate, a group of 33 Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) submitted a written inquiry to the Commission on June 30. They called for a review of glyphosate's authorization, reflecting a desire for more stringent oversight.  

EFSA has stated that the 21-month timeline for the assessment process is standard for such evaluations, emphasizing the importance of thorough and accurate reviews in matters of public health.  

As the EU embarks on this extensive review, the future of glyphosate remains uncertain, with potential implications for agricultural practices and public health policy across the continent. The Commission's next steps will be closely watched by both the scientific community and the public, as the debate over glyphosate's safety continues to unfold.    

Source:  

European Commission