Glyphosate residues in drinking waters and adverse health effects

Glyphosate residues in drinking waters and adverse health effects

Abstract Introduction. Control of pesticide residues in waters, foods and environmental samples is a growing source of concern for the general population. Glyphosate is the most widely applied herbicide active ingredient and its residues can be found in drinking waters. Therefore monitoring studies of glyphosate residues in water samples has a great of importance. Aim of the study. (1) To present the levels of glyphosate in various kinds of water samples, (2) to compare the levels of glyphosate residues with WHO and the international standards, and (3) to evaluate possible health effects related to glyphosate residue concentrations in the water samples. Results. Glyphosate residues have been detected in all kinds of waters all over the world. It was reported that the most drinking water samples contained higher levels of glyphosate residues than its Maximum Contaminant Level.  The levels of glyphosate residues may lead to health problems depending on the levels in waters. Various concentrations of the residues were found in ground and surface waters. The highest concentrations were found in regions with intensive agriculture. The findings indicated that the areas where located around the agricultural regions have glyphosate contamination risks in their water supplies. Conclusion. Glyphosate authoritatively classified as a probable human carcinogen. Survey studies have been indicated that the residues of glyphosate can be frequently found in drinking water samples. In order to prevent the health effects sourced from the glyphosate, the residues should be monitored in ground, surface and drinking water samples.  Key words: Drinking waters, glyphosate, residue

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  • Mehmet Fatih Cengiz1, Onur Basancelebi2, Yasin Emre Kitis3
  • 1Akdeniz University, Food Safety and Agricultural Research Center, 07058, Antalya/Turkey 2Akdeniz University, Engineering Faculty, Food Engineering Department, 07058, Antalya/Turkey, 3Akdeniz University, Agriculture Faculty, Plant Protection Department, 07058, Antalya/Turkey
  • Mehmet Fatih CENGIZ, PhD Akdeniz University, Food Safety and Agricultural Research Center Dumlupinar Bulvari 07058 / Campus / Antalya / Turkey Tel: +90 242 227 20 57 - 2574 Fax: +90 242 227 20 58 e-mail: fcengiz@akdeniz.edu.tr