Nowadays, even organic foods are affected by the excessive presence of pesticides. Pesticides are detrimental for our foods, our bodies, and our surroundings. Let’s check out some of the less known truths regarding pesticides.
5 Shocking Facts about Pesticides
The EPA turns a blind eye
Organophosphate is a pesticide which is neurotoxic and can disrupt the endocrine system. Although it can cause serious health problems, it is the second most common residue found on food. More than 5 million pounds of it are sprayed on a yearly basis. 14-year studies have shown that it can trigger autism, reduction in IQ, and organ damage.
Can lead to Parkinson’s
According to a study done by the University of Colorado, there was a strong link between atrazine, a pesticide used throughout the U.S., and an increase in the Parkinson’s rates from 4 to 40 percent.
They are detrimental for the Monarch butterfly
Sadly, the populations of monarch butterflies have reduced 90 percent in the last 20 years. They feed on milkweed plants from corn fields which have been wiped out due to the usage of the pesticide glyphosate. Similarly to bees, these butterflies pollinate crops and are essential for crop sustainability.
Banned pesticides still harm our health
A group of researchers from Washington State University studied Methoxychlor, a pesticide which was banned 10 years ago and shockingly, it was discovered that someone who is alive today could be diagnosed with kidney illness, obesity, and ovarian issues due to their grandparents’ exposure to this toxin.
They are detrimental for organic farms too
Organic and family farmers often have a problem keeping their crops safe from the enormous drift which happens from neighboring farms. Luckily, there are preventive programs being launched and 12 states are participants.
