Can you remove glyphosate from food?
While it is possible to reduce surface-level glyphosate residues on some foods, it is impossible to remove all glyphosate, especially systemic residues that have been absorbed into the plant's tissue. Glyphosate is a systemic herbicide, meaning it is absorbed by the plant through its leaves and transported throughout the plant, including into the fruit, grain, or vegetable itself. For this reason, common household washing methods are only partially effective at best, targeting only surface contamination.
Why is removing glyphosate so difficult?
Glyphosate’s systemic nature is the primary reason why it can't be completely washed off. Unlike contact pesticides that remain on the surface, glyphosate becomes an integral part of the plant. A study from the University of Massachusetts found that even after a thorough cleaning with a baking soda solution, a certain percentage of absorbed pesticides remained within the produce's peel. Moreover, some crops are treated with glyphosate as a desiccant shortly before harvest, ensuring uniform drying but also increasing the potential for residue on the final product. This is particularly common for certain grains, legumes, and oilseed crops.
Methods for reducing surface pesticide residue
For those seeking to minimize their exposure to surface-level pesticides, including potential glyphosate residue, several at-home washing methods are recommended. While none offer a 100% guarantee of removal, they are a practical step for conventional produce.
- Baking Soda Soak: Research suggests a baking soda and water solution is one of the most effective methods for removing surface pesticides. Soaking produce in a solution of one teaspoon of baking soda per two cups of water for about 12-15 minutes can significantly reduce surface residues. Always follow up with a thorough rinse under running tap water.
- Rinse and Scrub: For firmer produce with non-porous skins, such as apples, cucumbers, and potatoes, scrubbing with a clean vegetable brush under running water is highly recommended. For softer produce like grapes, rub them gently while rinsing in a colander.
- Peeling: Removing the outer skin or layers of produce is an effective way to remove both surface and some systemic residues. This is a good option for items like apples, carrots, potatoes, and thick-skinned fruits. However, note that much of the produce's nutrients and fiber are concentrated in the skin.
- Discard Outer Leaves: For leafy greens like lettuce and cabbage, peeling off and discarding the outermost layers can help reduce exposure, as pesticides often accumulate there.
The limits of washing and cooking
While washing is beneficial for cleaning dirt and surface residues, it is not a solution for systemic chemicals like glyphosate. Furthermore, cooking does not reliably eliminate glyphosate. Because glyphosate is stable at temperatures well above the boiling point of water, cooking methods like boiling can actually concentrate the chemical as water evaporates. While some studies show cooking can reduce other types of pesticide residues, its effectiveness against systemic glyphosate is minimal.
Comparison of Residue Reduction Methods
| Method | Effectiveness against Surface Residue | Effectiveness against Systemic Residue | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Baking Soda Soak | High | None | Inexpensive, effective for surface contaminants. | Requires soaking time, does not affect absorbed residues. |
| Water Rinse & Scrub | Moderate | None | Quick, easy, good for firm produce. | Less effective than baking soda soak for some surface types. |
| Peeling | High | High (for outer layers) | Guaranteed removal of outer residues. | Removes fiber and nutrients found in the skin. |
| Cooking | Low to Moderate | Ineffective | May reduce other pesticides, kills bacteria. | Not a reliable method for glyphosate removal; can concentrate residues. |
| Buying Organic | Very High (minimal initial residue) | Very High (no initial residue) | Most effective strategy for minimizing exposure. | Often more expensive and less widely available. |
The best approach: Reduce exposure, don’t rely on removal
Given the limitations of at-home methods for removing systemic glyphosate, the most reliable strategy for minimizing exposure is to reduce your intake from the start. This is primarily achieved by purchasing organic products, especially for foods known to have higher residue levels. While cross-contamination is a possibility, certified organic farming prohibits the use of glyphosate, which dramatically reduces the chances of significant residue. For conventionally grown food, especially items you consume frequently, a combination of washing and peeling provides the best available reduction strategy.
Further considerations
- Dietary Modeling: Studies have shown that dietary exposure to glyphosate from food is generally below established safe limits set by regulatory bodies like the JMPR and EPA, but this doesn't alleviate all consumer concerns.
- Environmental Contamination: Glyphosate's widespread use can lead to environmental contamination, affecting water, soil, and even organic fertilizers via animal feed, posing a risk to non-target organisms.
- Independent Certification: Look for independent certifications like the "Certified Glyphosate Residue Free" seal from organizations like The Detox Project, which test products for the presence of glyphosate.
Conclusion
In summary, completely removing glyphosate from all food is not possible due to its systemic nature, meaning it is absorbed directly into plants. While careful washing with a baking soda solution can effectively reduce surface-level residues, it does not address the chemical that has permeated the food's tissue. Neither cooking nor simple rinsing is a reliable method for eliminating this systemic residue. The most proactive and effective method for reducing dietary glyphosate exposure is to prioritize organic foods, particularly for items with known high residue levels. By combining informed shopping choices with proper food preparation, consumers can significantly lower their overall intake of glyphosate.
