The research: University of Caen researchers ran two studies on human cells. The first exposed cells to commercial pesticides’ active ingredients—the ones responsible for killing bugs. The second exposed them to full mixtures containing inactive ingredients. The results showed that 8 out of 9 mixtures were several hundred times more toxic than the active ingredients alone—the popular pesticide Roundup being the worst. What it means: Current pesticide safety testing is typically done on the active ingredient alone, and excludes inactive ingredients that are later added to mixtures. If the researchers can confirm their findings, current safety standards will be shown inaccurate. In addition, pesticides could have more adverse effects on human health than previously thought, says study co-author Robin Mesnage, PhD, researcher at the University of Caen. The bottom line: “This inconsistency between scientific fact and industrial claim may be attributed to huge economic interests, which have been found to falsify health risk assessments and delay health policy decisions,” says Dr. Mesnage. For now it’s best to stay away from weedkillers, pesticides, and incesticides since they have been linked to increased risk ofParkinson’s Disease, among other problems. And stick to organic foods grown without harmful chemicals. More From Prevention: Is Organic Food Really Better For You?
