Glyphosate, a potent weedkiller that the World Health Organization has classified as probable human carcinogen, was found by researchers from the University of La Plata (Argentina) in 85% of feminine hygiene products purchased in supermarkets and pharmacies in their region. In addition, 62% of tampons, sanitary napkins, wipes and gauze would also test positive for aminomethylphosphonic acid, a derivative of glyphosate.
This is because almost all of the cotton produced in Argentina, like that produced in the United States, has been genetically modified to resist herbicides. The glyphosate is sprayed on the plant while the bud is still open and it then spreads into the cotton in a condensed fashion.
The results of this study, led by Prof. Damian Marin, were presented last week in Buenos-Aires, during a medical congress.
“These results are very serious. You use cotton or gauze to heal wounds or for your personal hygiene thinking they are sterile products. But in reality they are contaminated with a carcinogenic substance.” said Dr Medardo Avila Vazquez, President of the Congress.
This discovery is reminiscent of the battle launched by a young model who had to have a leg amputated as a result of toxic shock syndrome caused by a tampon. The young woman is fighting for the manufacturers reveal the composition of their periodic protection. Perhaps we will have to ask them to also specify if the cotton used is transgenic …
Read also :
Infographic: the impact of pesticides on health
Gluten intolerance: a weedkiller questioned
Salads contain banned pesticides