Understanding Glyphosate and its Connection to Oats
Glyphosate is a widely used herbicide, commonly known as RoundUp. It's often applied to crops like oats as a pre-harvest desiccant to speed up drying for harvesting, which can result in chemical residues in the final product. Concerns about potential health effects, including its classification as a "probable carcinogen" by the WHO, have increased interest in glyphosate-free food.
Conventionally grown oats are frequently treated this way. A 2018 EWG study detected glyphosate in most conventional oat products tested, with some exceeding health benchmarks. While less common, some organic products also showed trace amounts, potentially due to cross-contamination. Therefore, while organic certification reduces exposure, additional verification can offer more certainty.
Identifying Glyphosate-Free Oatmeal
Consumers looking for oatmeal not sprayed with RoundUp can find options through organic certification and independent testing. The "Glyphosate Residue Free" seal from The Detox Project is a reliable third-party certification indicating products have been tested for non-detectable levels.
Brands Offering Glyphosate-Free Options
Many brands are committed to avoiding glyphosate in their oat products. Some achieve this through strict organic farming, while others pursue independent testing and certification.
- Certified Glyphosate Residue Free Brands: Companies like Back Roads Granola, One Degree Organic Foods, Seven Sundays, Healthy Traditions, MUSH Foods, and Thrive Market offer products verified by The Detox Project or similar third-party testing.
- Brands with No Detectable Levels in Testing: EWG reports have indicated some organic store brands, such as 365 Organic (Whole Foods) and Simple Truth Organic (Kroger), had no detectable glyphosate in specific products tested.
- International Options: Brands like Flahavan's from Ireland have policies prohibiting glyphosate use and test their oats. Oats from countries like Finland, where pre-harvest glyphosate on food cereals is banned, also represent a lower-risk choice.
How to Make an Informed Choice
Selecting oatmeal that is not sprayed with RoundUp involves looking beyond just the front of the package. Combining awareness of farming practices and checking for specific certifications is key.
Purchasing Considerations:
- Choose Organic: USDA Organic standards prohibit synthetic glyphosate use during growing.
- Look for Third-Party Certification: The Glyphosate Residue Free seal is a strong indicator of independent testing and non-detectable levels.
- Research Brands: Some brands are more transparent about their sourcing, testing, and farming relationships.
- Understand 'Non-GMO': This label doesn't guarantee the absence of glyphosate, as it can be used on non-GMO crops as a desiccant.
- Consider Origin: Oats from regions with bans on pre-harvest glyphosate desiccation, such as Finland, may offer an added layer of assurance.
Comparison of Oat Sourcing and Certification Approaches
| Oat Type / Sourcing | Best Practices to Avoid Glyphosate | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Conventional Oats | Avoid if concerned about residues. | Highest likelihood of glyphosate contamination due to desiccation practices. |
| USDA Organic Oats | A good baseline; significantly reduces exposure risk. | Possible for trace amounts due to cross-contamination from non-organic farming. |
| Certified Glyphosate Residue Free | Provides the highest assurance through independent lab testing. | Look for the specific seal, such as from The Detox Project. |
| Oats from Countries Banning Desiccation | A reliable source, naturally lower risk. | Countries like Finland have regulations against pre-harvest glyphosate on food grains. |
| Oats with Purity Protocols | Strict measures from field to packaging to prevent contamination (often for gluten-free but also relevant). | Some suppliers like Avena Foods use such protocols and certifications. |
The Impact of Consumer Demand
Consumer awareness and demand for cleaner products have influenced the market. As more people choose certified glyphosate-free or strictly organic options, it encourages more brands and farmers to adopt practices that minimize or eliminate glyphosate use. This was seen after initial reports highlighted glyphosate in common products, leading some brands to show reduced levels in subsequent tests.
Conclusion
To confidently choose oatmeal not sprayed with RoundUp, prioritize products that carry a 'Glyphosate Residue Free' certification or are USDA Organic from brands known for transparency and testing. While conventional options often contain glyphosate, the market now offers many cleaner alternatives. By looking for specific certifications and researching brand practices, consumers can find healthier oat products and support more sustainable farming methods. Brands like Back Roads Granola, One Degree Organic Foods, and Flahavan's are examples of companies offering verified options.
Further Reading
For more detailed information on glyphosate testing, product certifications, and related studies, exploring resources from organizations like The Detox Project and the Environmental Working Group (EWG) is recommended. These groups provide ongoing research and lists of tested products.
Endnotes
- Information is based on available data from sources including EWG and The Detox Project, covering various testing periods. Always check current product labels and certifications for the most up-to-date information.
