Campaigners call for ban on use of weedkiller glyphosate at harvest time

Campaigners are calling for a ban on using the weedkiller glyphosate as a pre-harvest drying agent, warning residues end up in staple foods [1]. The UK's regulator will soon consult on renewing its licence beyond December 2026 [1]. The Soil Association is leading the campaign to end the practice, which it says leaves traces in bread, breakfast cereals, and beer [1]. The use of glyphosate for this purpose was banned in the EU in 2023 [1]. Farmer Guy Singh-Watson of Riverford Organic Farmers said the UK should ban spraying crops just before harvest, stating, "I don't have a lot of faith in the regulatory regime" [1]. The government maintains glyphosate is strictly regulated and only authorized if evidence shows it is safe [1]. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) will launch a two-month public consultation this summer on whether to renew approval for the chemical [1]. Some farming groups argue the herbicide is essential. The National Farmers Union supports its continued use as a pre-harvest tool, calling it vital for producing sustainable and affordable food [1]. Farmer Dave Bell said he needs glyphosate to maintain soil health and reduce his carbon footprint [1]. Scientific opinion on the chemical's safety is divided. In 2015, the WHO's cancer agency classified glyphosate as "probably carcinogenic to humans" [1]. A recent review by international scientists concluded glyphosate-based herbicides "harm human health and can cause cancer" [1]. Bayer, which now owns the original manufacturer Monsanto, has stated no regulatory authority has found glyphosate to be carcinogenic [1].