Following recent media coverage around the use of glyphosate the HTA has issued the following statement:
We urge gardeners to use the same common sense when applying glyphosate which they would apply to using any kitchen or garden chemical products. Past studies have not proved that using glyphosate poses any real danger to humans even in a recent review of many products used in the home and on pets, of which glyphosate was included.
Glyphosate has been an effective method of weed control in commercial horticulture and gardens for 40 years now. Since its introduction in 1975 it has been successfully supporting the production of ornamental crops and enabled householders to enjoy a weed free garden.
It replaced an earlier herbicide product paraquat, which was highly poisonous to mammals and at that time was welcomed by society as a much safer alternative.
The EU and to a greater extent the UK, has a very rigid and well structured testing and approvals programme for any garden chemical and these include the risks of bystanders as well as those applying it.
When using any garden products you should always follow the label instructions as to the handling of the product, application rates and any instructions following application and buy those brands that you are familiar with.
Landscape Juice Network: The World Health Organisation report into the carcinogenicity of glyphosate
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