The use of glyphosate in the food industry has sparked significant controversy. Some critics claim that this herbicide may lead to cancer in humans, although opinions among scientists remain divided following a four-day Environmental Protection Agency meeting last year. In 2015, the World Health Organization classified glyphosate as “probably carcinogenic.” However, a subsequent report from the WHO and the Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations indicated that the chemical is unlikely to pose a cancer risk from residues found in food. Despite this, legal actions concerning the potential health risks associated with glyphosate are ongoing in various courts. Earlier this year, a California court mandated that the herbicide be labeled as a possible cancer hazard.
This prolonged debate over glyphosate has prompted several organizations, including OCA, Food Democracy Now, and The Detox Project, to test food products for glyphosate residues. So far, no significant health concerns have emerged from these tests, but the findings have led to calls for boycotts and regulatory changes. Ben & Jerry’s response to these test results illustrates the company’s business philosophy. The Unilever-owned ice cream brand, known for its commitment to fresh, wholesome, and natural ingredients, did not refute the possibility that glyphosate was detected in their products. Instead, they expressed a desire to investigate the issue further, positioning themselves as proactive partners in addressing consumer concerns.
This approach is a strategic move for the company, as it avoids giving OCA any ammunition to support their boycott campaign. By acknowledging the issue, Ben & Jerry’s demonstrates a willingness to eliminate any unwanted ingredients, potentially allowing them to navigate the situation with minimal damage to their reputation.
Despite Ben & Jerry’s careful handling of the situation, they may not suffer significant backlash from the test results. Earlier this month, a lawsuit against General Mills’ Nature Valley granola brand regarding glyphosate was dismissed. The class-action lawsuit claimed that the granola’s labeling as “Made with 100% Natural Oats” was deceptive due to trace amounts of glyphosate found in the product. However, a judge ruled that this assertion was “simply not plausible.”
In the context of food safety, the conversation surrounding glyphosate highlights the importance of transparency in food production. As consumers increasingly seek products that are free from harmful chemicals, including those with calcium citrate bulk, companies must remain vigilant and responsive to emerging concerns. This is especially true for brands like Ben & Jerry’s, which prioritize natural ingredients and consumer trust.