The Rise of Glyphosate: From Agricultural Staple to Controversial Herbicide
Glyphosate was first discovered in 1950 and identified as an herbicide by Monsanto in 1970, leading to the launch of Roundup in 1974. It quickly became a cornerstone of modern agricultural practices due to its broad-spectrum application. Its usage escalated even further with the development of genetically modified (GM) crops resistant to glyphosate. For decades, regulatory bodies considered glyphosate to have low hazard potential to mammals. However, in 2015, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified glyphosate as "probably carcinogenic", sparking a global debate. This stance contrasted with evaluations by the European Union (EU) and joint assessments by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), which did not find a carcinogenic link.
States Leading Glyphosate Use
In 2019, the ten states with the highest estimated agricultural use of glyphosate were concentrated in the Midwest and Great Plains, reflecting the dominance of large-scale row-crop production in these areas. All ten states recorded more than 10 million pounds of glyphosate applied to farmland. Among them, Iowa, Texas, Kansas, and Illinois stood out, each surpassing 20 million pounds, highlighting their leading role in national crop output. Together, these top ten states accounted for 62% of glyphosate usage nationally.
States With the Lowest Glyphosate Use
In 2019, the ten states with the lowest estimated agricultural use of glyphosate were primarily located in the Northeast and smaller farming regions of the country. Usage in these states was far lower than national leaders, with totals ranging from just over 1,000 pounds in Rhode Island to slightly more than 229,000 pounds in New Jersey. States such as Vermont, Maine, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts also ranked near the bottom, reflecting their smaller agricultural land base and lower intensity of row-crop production. Collectively, these ten states accounted for only 0.3% of glyphosate usage nationally.
10 States With Least Estimated Agricultural Use of Glyphosate (2019)
www.consumershield.com*Based on low-end EPA pesticide use estimates (EPEST_LOW)
Source: USGS
Historic Growth of Glyphosate Use in U.S. Agriculture
To understand the impact of glyphosate on agriculture and the environment, we will examine findings from an academic research article covering glyphosate use in the United States from 1974 to 2014. In 1974, approximately 1.4 million pounds of glyphosate were used in the United States, with agricultural usage accounting for 57% of the total. However, by 2014, glyphosate usage had skyrocketed to over 276 million pounds, representing a staggering increase from 1974 levels. Agricultural use continued to dominate, reaching nearly 90% of the total usage in 2014.
Glyphosate Usage in the U.S. (1974–2014)
www.consumershield.comThis exponential rise in glyphosate use can be attributed to the widespread adoption of glyphosate-resistant GM crops. The data reveal a consistent year-over-year increase, with a significant surge in the late 1990s, aligning with the introduction and widespread adoption of these GM crops. The peak years of 2010 to 2014 witnessed the highest levels of glyphosate usage, averaging around 266 million pounds per year. These figures highlight the integral role glyphosate plays in modern U.S. agriculture.
Environmental and Health Implications of Glyphosate's Surge
The dramatic increase in glyphosate usage raises concerns regarding its safety and environmental impact. With the IARC classifying glyphosate as a probable carcinogen, the RoundUp Lawsuit has shed light on the potential risks associated with prolonged exposure to this herbicide. Plaintiffs, ranging from agricultural workers to residential users, claim that their diagnoses of non-Hodgkin lymphoma are directly linked to their use of RoundUp. Notable lawsuits, such as Donnetta Stephens' case and the class-action lawsuit led by Lisa Jones, Horacio Torres Bonilla, and Kristoffer Yee, have brought attention to Monsanto's marketing practices and alleged concealment of glyphosate's dangers.
While the IARC's classification raised alarm bells, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) maintains that glyphosate is "not likely to be carcinogenic to humans." However, independent studies, such as one published in Mutation Research, have found a significant increase in the risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma among heavy glyphosate users. This conflicting scientific opinion further fuels the controversy and ongoing legal scrutiny.
RoundUp Weed Killer and the Future of Glyphosate
RoundUp Weed Killer, containing glyphosate, has long been a top-selling product for Monsanto, with the introduction of “Roundup Ready” crops in the 1990s driving a significant increase in nationwide usage. Yet its financial success is now overshadowed by growing health concerns and mounting legal challenges, leaving the future of RoundUp and glyphosate uncertain. Conflicting views from international regulatory bodies and ongoing scientific research highlight the complexity of assessing glyphosate’s safety, while the outcomes of current lawsuits may reshape legal precedents, influence agricultural practices, and guide consumer choices.
Take Action With a Free RoundUp Case Review
If you or a loved one has been exposed to RoundUp and are now facing health concerns, taking action is essential. ConsumerShield can connect you with highly experienced RoundUp lawyers who understand the complexities of these cases and are dedicated to pursuing justice on your behalf. To begin exploring your legal options, start today with a free case review and find out if you qualify for compensation.
