Understanding Glyphosate in American Beer
Glyphosate is a widely used herbicide in the United States, applied to numerous crops, including those integral to brewing like barley and wheat. As a result, it can find its way into the final beer product. Public interest has grown around this issue, particularly following a 2019 study by the U.S. Public Interest Research Group (U.S. PIRG) Education Fund. This report, which tested 15 beers and five wines, brought the topic of chemical contamination in beverages to the forefront.
The 2019 U.S. PIRG Study: A Landmark Finding
The 2019 U.S. PIRG study revealed that most popular American beer brands contained trace levels of glyphosate. While the levels were below the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) risk tolerance for beverages, they sparked a debate about the chemical's pervasive nature. The study identified Peak Beer Organic IPA as the only tested brand that did not contain detectable levels of glyphosate at that time. It is important to remember that this data is from 2019 and may not reflect the current status of all brands.
Why Trace Amounts Appear in Beer
Glyphosate can contaminate beer through several pathways. The most common include:
- Contaminated Raw Materials: The most significant source is from conventionally grown barley, wheat, and other grains. While brewers may not use glyphosate, their agricultural suppliers might. Hops can also be a minor source.
- Water Supply: Since glyphosate is so prevalent, it can enter water sources through runoff, potentially contaminating the water used in brewing.
- Airborne Drift: Glyphosate can drift from nearby fields where it is being sprayed, affecting organic crops that otherwise would not be exposed.
The Challenge for Organic Beers
For consumers seeking a glyphosate-free product, certified organic beer is a logical starting point. The USDA Organic seal prohibits the use of synthetic herbicides like glyphosate in the farming of the raw ingredients. However, even this does not guarantee a complete absence of the chemical. The 2019 U.S. PIRG study, for example, found traces in a different organic lager, suggesting that airborne drift is a real concern.
Navigating the Market: Choosing Purity
As of 2025, finding a beer with a guarantee of zero glyphosate is difficult without independent testing of current batches. However, consumers can make informed choices by prioritizing certified organic options and supporting breweries that explicitly state their commitment to purity. Brands that have previously been identified as organic or low-trace include Michelob Ultra Pure Gold (USDA certified organic) and Rancho West Beer (USDA certified organic). While not comprehensive, this approach helps minimize potential exposure.
A Comparative Look at 2019 Glyphosate Levels
| Beer Brand (from 2019 U.S. PIRG Study) | Glyhosate Level (ppb) | Standard | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peak Beer Organic IPA | Not Detected | Organic | The only tested brand with no detectable level in 2019. |
| Tsingtao Beer | 49.7 | Conventional | Contained one of the highest levels in the 2019 test. |
| Coors Light | 31.1 | Conventional | High level found in the 2019 test. |
| Miller Lite | 29.8 | Conventional | High level found in the 2019 test. |
| Budweiser | 27.0 | Conventional | High level found in the 2019 test. |
| Samuel Smith's Organic Lager | 5.7 | Organic | Example of cross-contamination affecting an organic product. |
| Heineken | 20.9 | Conventional | Moderate level found in the 2019 test. |
Finding Modern, Purer Beer Options
For those seeking greater purity, a few steps can guide your search:
- Prioritize USDA Organic: Look for the organic certification seal, which is the most reliable indicator that synthetic herbicides were not used in farming the ingredients.
- Research Specific Brands: Some breweries, like the Maine-based Peak Organic, have historically demonstrated a commitment to avoiding contaminants, even if market dynamics change over time. Brands like Rancho West also advertise as glyphosate-free.
- Choose European Imports: Some European countries, particularly Germany, have stricter regulations on glyphosate usage, which might result in lower trace amounts in imported beers. Germany actively limits its use of Roundup.
- Consult Updated Information: Consumer advocacy groups like the Environmental Working Group (EWG) and U.S. PIRG occasionally release new reports on food and beverage contamination, so staying informed is crucial. The U.S. PIRG report from 2019 is a good starting point for reference. For the full 2019 U.S. PIRG report, visit the source directly.
Conclusion: Making Informed Choices
Answering the question of which beer has no glyphosate in the USA is complex because a definitive, universally applicable answer requires consistent and current testing across all products. While the 2019 U.S. PIRG study identified Peak Beer Organic IPA as the sole tested product without detectable glyphosate, it is important to treat this as historical data. For today's consumer, the most reliable strategy is to seek USDA-certified organic options and support brands that are transparent about their sourcing and brewing practices. Understanding the pathways of contamination, even in organic products, empowers consumers to make the most informed choices for their health. As awareness of agricultural chemicals grows, hopefully, more brands will prioritize eliminating glyphosate from their production chain, offering clearer options for purity-conscious drinkers.
