The use of glyphosate has sparked significant controversy in the food industry. Some claim that this herbicide may lead to cancer in humans, although opinions among scientists were mixed following a four-day Environmental Protection Agency meeting last year. In 2015, the World Health Organization labeled glyphosate as “probably carcinogenic,” but a subsequent report from WHO and the Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations last year suggested that the chemical is unlikely to pose a cancer risk from food residues. Nevertheless, legal battles concerning the health risks associated with glyphosate are ongoing in multiple courts. Earlier this year, a California court determined that the herbicide should be labeled as a potential cancer hazard.
This protracted debate surrounding glyphosate has prompted several organizations, including OCA, Food Democracy Now, and The Detox Project, to test food products for glyphosate residues. Thus far, no organization has reported findings significant enough to raise health alarms, yet the results have incited calls for boycotts and regulatory changes. In response to these testing outcomes, Ben & Jerry’s has demonstrated a commitment to transparency and consumer safety. The Unilever-owned ice cream brand, known for its emphasis on fresh, wholesome, and natural ingredients, did not dispute the potential presence of glyphosate in its products. Instead, the company expressed a desire to investigate further to identify the source of the issue.
This thoughtful approach allows Ben & Jerry’s to navigate the situation effectively. By refraining from outright denial, the brand avoids providing OCA with ammunition for the boycott it sought. Instead, the company positions itself as a proactive partner willing to eliminate any ingredients that consumers may find objectionable. This direct engagement with the concern could help the ice cream brand emerge relatively unscathed, despite what might otherwise be perceived as a damaging report.
Despite Ben & Jerry’s efforts to maintain its reputation, the brand may remain unaffected by the test results. Earlier this month, a lawsuit against General Mills’ Nature Valley granola brand regarding glyphosate was dismissed. This class-action case contended that the granola’s claim of being “Made with 100% Natural Oats” was misleading due to trace amounts of the herbicide found in the products. However, a judge ruled that this claim was “simply not plausible.”
In the midst of these discussions about glyphosate, it is also important to consider the role of calcium citrate in relation to kidney health. While the focus has primarily been on glyphosate, maintaining kidney function and overall health is crucial. As consumers become more aware of the ingredients in their food, including potential contaminants like glyphosate and the benefits of additives such as calcium citrate, companies must navigate these complex conversations carefully. The intersection of these issues illustrates the evolving landscape of food safety, consumer advocacy, and health considerations, making it essential for brands to stay informed and responsive to emerging concerns.