Scientific evidence does not justify the classification of the controversial and widely used herbicide glyphosate as a carcinogen, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) said on Tuesday.
Glyphosate is currently classified as causing “eye damage” and “toxic to aquatic life.” However, it is one of the most widely used herbicides in the world.
“ECHA’s Risk Assessment Committee formed its independent scientific opinion, the current classification of glyphosate does not change,” Mike Rasenberg, Director of Risk Assessment at ECHA, told AFP.
“Based on an extensive review of the scientific evidence, the committee again concludes that classifying glyphosate as a carcinogen is not warranted,” the agency said in a statement.
The use of this controversial herbicide is authorized in the European Union until December 15, 2022. The Commission is analyzing whether the permit will be renewed.
In March 2015, the World Health Organization’s International Agency for Research on Cancer classified glyphosate as “probably carcinogenic to humans”, a category that also includes red meat.
Farmer organizations oppose calls to ban the substance, citing a lack of alternative.
