You have probably heard of how harmful Roundup is. So many people have complained of this herbicide causing them cancer either directly or indirectly. This famous weed killer might have even caused harm to you or your loved ones.
So, it is only normal to wonder why it is still on the shelves. This article explores how harmful Roundup is and why people still use it. To learn more about Roundup lawsuits, contact mass tort attorneys today.
What Exactly Is Roundup?
Roundup is a weed killer manufactured by Monsanto, which is now owned by Bayer. This weed killer has an active ingredient called glyphosate, an ingredient in over 700 other products sold in the United States. Some research shows that glyphosate is capable of causing cancer in humans, which is why it is so deadly.
Some countries have banned or restricted the use of this chemical. In addition, the World Health Organization’s (WHO) International Agency for Research on Cancer lists glyphosate as a “probable human carcinogen.”
Some researchers have also indicated that Roundup uses surfactants to penetrate plant leaves, allowing glyphosate to reach plant cells. Unfortunately, this soap-like detergent also helps glyphosate to travel through the human body, causing damage internally. So why is Roundup still everywhere?
Why Is Roundup Still Being Sold?
People used glyphosate as a herbicide in 1974 when Monsanto used it to create Roundup. However, farmers did not widely use Roundup until as recently as 1996. This was because Monsanto was also selling genetically modified seeds to farmers. As a result, the seeds were resistant to the effects of Roundup as a herbicide.
Of course, farmers welcomed this as they could now treat their plants with herbicide without risking their death. During this period, there was a shortage of crops like soybean, corn, cotton, etc. With farmers not having to worry over insects, it was easier for them to focus on making more money.
Despite the research and the concerns of individuals, major organizations, and countries, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) says that glyphosate is not a risk to public health. Many farmers have also continued to use products that contain this chemical, such as Roundup. In addition, many agriculturists still use this product to improve their crop health.
As such, its producers say that farmers are dependent on this product and that they are “committed to making sure the product remains available.” Of course, the fact that some research shows that the global glyphosate market could hit $12 billion by 2024 might have something to do with this resolution.
How Is Roundup Harmful?
The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) concluded that glyphosate is “probably” a human carcinogenic or a “Group 2A” carcinogen in 2015. What is very interesting to note is that IARC cut out parts of the report before publishing it. The details they cut were contributed by scientists funded by Monsanto.
A review published in Environmental Sciences Europe confirms IARCs conclusions. Furthermore, it affirms that IARCs sources were peer-reviewed; hence, their findings were likely valid. The review also mentions that the EPA ignored the proper studies in drawing its conclusion that glyphosate is unsafe.
Results for Roundup Lawsuits
Although the EPA has not banned the use of the product, thousands of people are taking legal action. Bayer, the parent company of Monsanto, agreed to pay almost $11 billion to settle lawsuits against them. This amount includes $1.25 billion set aside for future cases.
It is also interesting to note that the content of this herbicide sold in Europe is less toxic than the United States’ version. However, the company does not show any signs of stopping the production of Roundup. To date, the cans do not have labels to warn customers of the possible risks associated with the product.
What Should I Do With My Roundup?
Knowing the harm this weedkiller causes, you might want to dispose of your supply of the herbicide. However, if you would like to do this, you must ensure that you do not dispose of them near water. This is because chemicals can be harmful to fishes and other organisms in the water body.
You should also avoid direct contact with the contents of Roundup. Furthermore, do not flush them down the toilet or wash them off in the sink. Instead, if you read the instructions in the container carefully, you should find ways to dispose of the chemical carefully.
Contact a Roundup Lawsuit Attorney Today!
If you or anyone you know has developed cancer because of Roundup, we can help you. Schedule a consultation with our mass tort attorneys at Rueb Stoller Daniel today to claim the compensation you deserve.