Fact-Check Article: "GMO foods don't contain large amounts of glyphosate"
What We Know
Genetically modified organisms (GMOs), particularly those engineered to be glyphosate-tolerant, are widely used in agriculture. According to a study on GM crop use from 1996 to 2020, glyphosate is the most commonly developed trait in GM crops, allowing farmers to apply glyphosate herbicides without harming the crops. This has led to significant reductions in overall pesticide use, with a noted decrease in the environmental impact associated with herbicide application.
However, the presence of glyphosate residues in GMO foods has been documented. A 2023 report indicates that measurable quantities of glyphosate are detected in some GMO products, suggesting that while GMOs may not contain "large amounts" of glyphosate, they are not entirely free from it. Additionally, a 2015 review highlighted that glyphosate-tolerant crops can accumulate glyphosate residues, raising concerns about the levels that may be passed on to consumers.
Furthermore, it is noted that over 80% of GM crops globally are engineered to tolerate glyphosate, which indicates a strong correlation between GMO cultivation and glyphosate application (Detox Project).
Analysis
The claim that "GMO foods don't contain large amounts of glyphosate" is nuanced. On one hand, the assertion could be interpreted to mean that GMO foods are not saturated with glyphosate, which aligns with findings that suggest glyphosate levels in food products are generally below established safety thresholds (GMO Answers). However, the existence of glyphosate residues in GMO foods is well-documented, and the levels can vary depending on several factors, including agricultural practices and regulatory standards.
The reliability of the sources is mixed. The 2023 report from a reputable pediatric journal provides a contemporary overview of glyphosate residues in GMO foods, while the 2015 review raises valid concerns about the methodology of industry studies, suggesting that they may not adequately address glyphosate residue levels. This indicates a potential bias in industry-sponsored research, which could downplay the presence of glyphosate in GMOs.
Moreover, the study on GM crop use presents a comprehensive analysis of pesticide use over time, but it primarily focuses on the environmental impacts rather than specific residue levels in food products. This may limit its applicability to the claim being evaluated.
Conclusion
The claim that "GMO foods don't contain large amounts of glyphosate" is Partially True. While it is accurate that GMO foods may not contain "large amounts" of glyphosate in the sense that they are generally below safety thresholds, the presence of measurable glyphosate residues in these foods cannot be denied. The variability in residue levels and the potential for accumulation in certain crops complicate the assertion. Therefore, while the claim has some basis in fact, it does not fully capture the complexity of glyphosate presence in GMO foods.
Sources
- Genetically Modified (GM) Crop Use 1996–2020
- Use of Genetically Modified Organism (GMO)-Containing Foods
- Review of GMO safety assessment studies: glyphosate residues in Roundup Ready crops
- Which foods are most likely to be contaminated by glyphosate?
- What's the connection between glyphosate and genetically modified crops?
- Frequently asked Questions About Glyphosate and GMOs
- Update on long-term toxicity of agricultural GMOs tolerant to glyphosate
- Glyphosate In Food - Is it Bad for You?