Talking Biotech with Dr. Kevin Folta Glyphosate: 10 Lessons from 10 Years After IARC - Dr. David Zaruk
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Aug 2, 2025 David Zaruk, a retired academic and environmental health risk analyst known as the Risk Monger, delves into the complexities surrounding glyphosate, a chemical reclassified as a probable carcinogen. He critiques the role of the IARC in assessing glyphosate's risks and discusses the profound societal divides regarding its use in agriculture. The conversation highlights how media sensationalism influences public perception and calls into question the ethics of litigation finance in glyphosate lawsuits. Zaruk emphasizes the need for transparency and informed discussions about agricultural practices.
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Glyphosate's Farm Boy Impact
- David Zaruk grew up on a farm before glyphosate's advent and saw firsthand how it revolutionized farming.
- Glyphosate reduced child labor and transformed weed control on farms.
IARC's Ethical and Political Issues
- The IARC glyphosate monograph was influenced by conflicts of interest and unethical conduct among some scientists.
- This undermined trust in science and revealed IARC's political motivations over scientific independence.
IARC's Lack of Accountability
- IARC operates with little accountability to WHO and shows political bias over scientific rigor.
- Their hazard assessments ignore exposure levels, which other WHO agencies consider in risk assessments.