Glyphosate is a chemical substance found in herbicides most used by farmers, such as Roundup, whose exposure, when prolonged, can be associated with the development of tumors. While the overall risk is not yet fully known, there are some precautions you can take to eliminate glyphosate from your diet. Try to avoid foods that are rich in it, such as oats or soy, by opting for those grown without pesticides. If you want to eat fruits and vegetables, wash them to partially remove contaminants and reduce their intake. With a little effort, you can eliminate a good percentage of chemicals from your daily food consumption!
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Eliminate Glyphosate from Food
Step 1. Avoid oats and grains from non-organic crops
Many farmers spray glyphosate on oats and grains, such as barley and quinoa, to speed up the drying process and optimize the yield. Read the label or other wording on the package to see if the product you buy comes from organic crops and, therefore, make sure it has not been subjected to chemical treatments. If you are unsure whether it is an organic or glyphosate-free food, do a little research on the internet for more information.
- Glyphosate is found in cereals, bread, oatmeal and cereal bars.
- Glyphosate is not listed as an ingredient in processed foods, so until proven otherwise, the product you purchase may contain traces of this substance.
- The FDA and the EPA ("Food and Medicines Agency" and "Environmental Protection Agency", both US government agencies) have set maximum levels of glyphosate in food and manufacturing to avoid overexposure to this substance with dangerous consequences for human health.
- You don't have to throw out all the foods you've already bought that presumably contain glyphosate because the main concern is long-term exposure.
Step 2. Buy organic products to avoid taking herbicides and pesticides
While farmers use glyphosate in the cultivation of numerous plant products, organic foods are not subjected to any chemical treatment against the growth of weeds and the attack of parasites. Therefore, shop at an organic food store to buy unprocessed products and use them in the kitchen. Store organic fruits and vegetables away from other plant products to avoid the risk of chemical contamination.
- The most common products containing glyphosate are soy, peas, carrots, sweet potatoes and corn.
- There may be residues of glyphosate in organic food due to wind contamination.
- Organic foods are more expensive than non-organic or processed foods.
Step 3. Look for foods that say "glyphosate free" on the package
Some food products can achieve "glyphosate-free" certification once they have been tested for contaminants. When shopping, check the packaging of the food items you want to buy to see if it says "glyphosate free". If present, it means that they are not contaminated with chemicals. If not, they may still contain glyphosate residues.
You can also opt for products that say "organic" or "non-GMO" to be sure they have not been treated with chemicals. However, they may contain traces of glyphosate in case of cross-contamination
Advise:
if you buy fresh produce at a farmer's market, ask what types of herbicides and pesticides they use so you can determine if they contain glyphosate.
Step 4. Try growing some vegetables to definitely rule out the presence of glyphosate
You can grow them near a sunny window in the kitchen, or you can start a vegetable garden in an area of the garden. Choose seeds or cuttings made from organic products you have already purchased. Take care of each plant so it can produce fruits and vegetables to use without the worry of them being contaminated with glyphosate.
You can easily grow tomatoes, salads, spices and herbs at home
Step 5. Support groups that want to ban the use of glyphosate to prevent further contamination
Many collective interest advocacy groups are taking a stand against glyphosate with the aim of banning it in crops. Search the Internet for petitions against glyphosate to sign or foundations to donate to so you can support them. Inform other people about the scientific research concerning the use of this substance by pointing out the importance of everyone's contribution in this cause.
Do thorough research on glyphosate before talking to others so you don't spread misinformation
Part 2 of 2: Clean Contaminated Products
Step 1. Prepare a baking soda solution for effective cleaning
Pour 1 teaspoon (5 g) of baking soda into 500 ml of cold tap water and mix until completely dissolved. Put the food to be washed in the solution and leave it to soak for 15 minutes. Bicarbonate favors the removal of any glyphosate residues on the surface of foods, making their consumption safer.
- Wash fruits and vegetables even if they have inedible peels, such as bananas and oranges. Glyphosate may stick to the outside and contaminate other objects it comes in contact with.
- If necessary, you can make a larger solution by maintaining the ratio of 1 teaspoon (5 g) of baking soda to 500 ml of water so as not to alter the taste of the food.
- If you prefer, you can use a sanitizing spray for fruits and vegetables although its effectiveness may be lower than that of baking soda.
Step 2. Rinse under running water to remove the solution
Put a colander in the sink and pour the food inside. Keep the tap running for 1-2 minutes, turning and moving the fruit and vegetables to rinse them thoroughly. When you're done, turn off the tap and shake them to get rid of excess water and not leave them completely wet.
Do not leave food to soak because glyphosate residues can remain in the water and stick to the food
Advise:
use a vegetable brush for fruit and vegetables to remove any dirt or contaminants still present on the surface.
Step 3. Use the absorbent paper to remove any residue that may remain
Remove the food from the colander and dry them separately with several sheets of absorbent paper. In this way you will complete the cleaning by eliminating the last residues on the surface. Once dried, place them in a salad bowl or container to isolate them from unwashed products that risk contaminating them.
Do not use the same sheet of paper for more than one food, otherwise you could transfer the contaminants
Step 4. Clean the fruit and vegetables if you want to get rid of the contaminants absorbed by the peel
Glyphosate residues can penetrate the peel, leaving fruit and vegetables contaminated despite washing. Use a peeler or knife to discard the outer parts, then throw them away to avoid any risk of contamination.
