Pesticide limits in Canadian drinking water rest on industry-funded studies

Researchers say the federal glyphosate guideline relies on Monsanto studies more than 45 years old. Health Canada did not say whether the 1981 study was independently validated.

The WHO classed glyphosate as probably carcinogenic in 2015, while Health Canada concluded in 2017 it is unlikely to pose a cancer risk. The drinking-water guideline has not been updated since 1995.

Glyphosate sold, 2024 vs 1995

25 times more

Glyphosate sales in 2024 were 25 times those of 1995, according to the latest pesticide sales report.

And us?

The federal guideline is 280 micrograms per litre. Quebec applies 210, which its environment ministry says comes only from assuming two litres of water a day instead of 1.5.