Feds Used Monsanto-Funded Studies To Determine Glyphosate-Containing Weedkillers Are Safe

By Amanda Froelich

Despite a number of studies concluding glyphosate, the main ingredient in Monsanto’s Roundup herbicide, to be toxic to the environment, wildlife, and human health, the Environmental Protection Agency concluded earlier this year that it is not an endocrine disruptor. 

However, upon further inspection, it has been discovered that the majority of the evidence the EPA considered was funded by Monsanto, the chemical’s maker. The documents were sought out by The Intercept through Freedom of Information Acts requests.

It was found that out of 32 studies, just five were independently funded. The other 27 were funded by Monsanto.

Not surprisingly, all 27 of the industry-backed studies concluded that glyphosate does not cause endocrine disruption – even though data within those studies might suggest otherwise.

For example, as TreeHugger reports, one study found that rats exposed to glyphosate had pregnancy problems at a rate that is statistically significant. Nonetheless, the paper concludes that fertility issues were a random occurrence.

Of the five independent studies examined by the EPA, three found that even small exposures of the chemical cause harm to endocrine systems. 

Glyphosate has been linked with childhood Leukemia, brain tumors and infertility in lab specimens. In addition, the World Health Organization declared earlier this year that glyphosate is “probably carcinogenic.” Is it not ridiculous that the majority of the studies considered by a governmental agency – which is supposed to protect the American people – were funded by the biotech company Monsanto?

Unfortunately, this is not the first time research funding has been shown to influence the outcome of studies. For example, in a 2006 study comparing independent meta-reviews with industry-funded meta-reviews for the same drugs, it was concluded that the industry-backed reviews overwhelmingly came to a pro-industry conclusions.

This is just one more reminder to be wary of ‘scientifically-backed studies’ until you know who they were funded by, as well as the organization’s agenda.

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