Canadian organic farmers against changes in food glyphosate residue limits

Published Jul 15, 2021

Tridge summary

The Canadian Pest Management Agency (PMRA) is proposing to increase the maximum residue limits (MRLs) of glyphosate in food, which could result in higher levels of the herbicide in organic products. This proposal has sparked opposition from organic organizations, who argue that the increased use of glyphosate could harm health, soil, and pollinators. The Canadian Organic Trade Association is advocating for a reduction in glyphosate levels to align with international standards and support the health and ethical choices of consumers.

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Original content

The Canadian Pest Management Agency (PMRA) is proposing to increase the amount of glyphosate allowed in food. Organic organizations oppose Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) can be doubled, tripled, or nearly quadrupled for oats and bran, lentils, peas and 25 legumes and nuts (mainly almonds, pecans and walnuts) sourced primarily from the United States. Organic production prohibits the use of glyphosate, but it is constantly present in the air due to the widespread use of glyphosate by non-organic farmers in North America. Inadvertent contamination is becoming more problematic and is being addressed in accordance with the protocol confirming the possibility of such contamination. Since this organic testing protocol is based on a 5% MRL, the proposed increase in national MRLs for the above products means that higher glyphosate levels will be allowed for organic products as well. “This is the wrong move, allowing more organic contamination and allowing more glyphosate to be used in our ...

Source: Agroxxi