Why Is Roundup Still Being Sold?
“Why Is Roundup Still Being Sold?” If you wonder whether you may have a lawsuit, contact the Accident Attorneys of America. Call today for a consultation.
What Is Roundup and How Harmful Is It?
Roundup is a weed killer produced by Monsanto and currently owned by Bayer. It’s considered amongst the most widely used herbicides in the United States and the rest of the world.
The weed killer, however, relies on the chemical compound glyphosate. This substance was discovered in the early 1970s and is an active component of Roundup.
Glyphosate is somewhat unusual among herbicides – chemicals that kill vegetation – because it doesn’t specifically target weeds or other plants. As a non-selective herbicide, glyphosate destroys all plants and crops it comes into contact with.
Some organizations believe that the active ingredient in the popular weed killer Roundup, glyphosate, is a human carcinogen and a toxin that can lead to cancer in people.
Roundup’s Active Ingredient Controversy
According to some studies, glyphosate can cause cancer in people, which explains why it is so controversial.
Some studies have also suggested that Roundup penetrates plant leaves using surfactants. In this way, glyphosate is able to penetrate plant cells. This, in turn, enhances glyphosate’s chances of entry and transit through the human body, which can potentially harm internal organs.
A 2015 study by the World Health Organization’s International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC )found substantial evidence of glyphosate’s genotoxicity (DNA damage) and classified it as a probable carcinogen to humans.
Some countries prohibit or restrict the use of this substance. However, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) states that glyphosate poses no health risk when used according to the instruction on its label.
Do Farmers Still Use Roundup?
Although Monsanto created Roundup in 1974, it didn’t become popular with farmers until the 1990s. But there is a reason for that gap: the company started selling genetically modified seeds that were resistant to the effects of Roundup as a herbicide.
Years after it became popular, studies suggested that glyphosate exposure may be linked to several side effects. While short-term side effects include nausea, diarrhea, and skin, nose, eye, or throat irritation, prolonged exposure can result in different cancer diagnoses, including non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, bone cancer, and leukemia.
Despite the research and concerns, many farmers have continued to use glyphosate-based herbicides, including Roundup, to improve their crop health.
Manufacturers stated they are committed to ensuring the product remains available. Research shows that by 2024, the global glyphosate market could hit $10.88 billion, which may have contributed to this decision.
Will Roundup Be Taken Off the Market?
Agrochemical giant Bayer stated in July 2021 that it would stop selling its well-known weed killer Roundup to residential customers starting in 2023. Although the decision to remove the product from store shelves may not have been unexpected, the justification behind it may be.
Despite the allegations that glyphosate exposure is causing cancer, Bayer continued to claim that the substance is safe, nevertheless. The steps to stop Roundup from still being sold are made entirely to control litigation risk and not because of any safety concerns.
When sales of Roundup stops, a new product that doesn’t contain glyphosate will take its place. However, only residential clients in the American market will be affected by this change. The original formulation will still be available to commercial farmers in the United States and will continue to be sold in dozens of countries overseas for commercial and residential use.
Who Is Eligible for a Lawsuit Arising Out of Roundup Cancer Claims?
The civil court system has seen many lawsuits against the Roundup manufacturer. Consumers believe the company endangered public health by failing to warn them of the dangers of using the product regularly. Many Roundup lawsuits have settled, but others are still waiting to hear the outcome of their case.
Plaintiffs generally have various forms of cancer or other health issues and are undergoing treatment. Those qualifying for a Roundup lawsuit typically suffer from a non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma or other cancer diagnoses. Although farmers, landscapers, and other agricultural workers have a high risk of Roundup injuries, anyone can suffer health problems due to Roundup exposure.
Since Bayer continues to deny allegations, plaintiffs may face legal challenges. Therefore, those deciding to pursue a legal claim may consider hiring an experienced and knowledgeable Roundup lawyer prepared to protect their rights and fight for financial settlement.
If you’re experiencing health problems or developed cancer that could be linked to your use of a glyphosate product like Roundup, it’s crucial to get a complete picture of your options and rights. Remember that years may pass between glyphosate exposure and cancer diagnosis, so the victims will likely continue to come forth for decades.
What Are the Alternatives to Roundup?
Roundup may be replaced by using organic alternatives. Herbicidal soaps that kill weeds using fatty acids and industrial vinegar, which has significantly higher quantities of acetic acid than household vinegar, can be alternatives to Roundup.
But, organic herbicides are most effective when weeds are young and less effective as weeds get older.
Since Roundup is widely used by farmers and landscapers, no matter how much you commit to buying organic foods or using organic alternatives to Roundup, your health can be at risk.
How Can an Attorney Help in a Roundup Lawsuit?
Although the EPA still hasn’t banned the use of Roundup or glyphosate, thousands of people are taking legal action against Bayer, the parent company of Monsanto. They agreed to pay almost $11 billion to settle numerous Roundup lawsuits.
Even though it is rumored that the contents of the Roundup herbicide sold in Europe are less toxic than its U.S. counterpart, the company doesn’t show any signs of stopping the production of Roundup. In fact, the product cans don’t even have label warnings of the possible risks associated with the product.
Contact us if you have more questions on why Roundup is still being sold or how to pursue a Roundup lawsuit. Our America’s Accident Attorneys have experience dealing with these cases and can ensure you obtain dedicated legal representation. Call us to schedule an appointment today!
