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Join geneticist Kevin Folta and GLP contributor Cameron English on episode 179 of Science Facts and Fallacies as they break down these latest news stories:
Have farmers “drenched” their crops in glyphosate, allowing the weedkiller to permeate our environment? That was the theme of a recent webinar featuring Carey Gillam, Kelly Ryerson (the self-described “Glyphosate Girl”) and other anti-pesticide activists. The panel featured no dissenting voices and the speakers took no questions. A careful review of the facts indicates that the panelists radically diverged from the scientific evidence.
The weedkiller atrazine has been in use since the 1950s. It’s a useful crop-protection tool for corn growers because it inhibits photosynthesis in a wide variety of weeds, but the crop itself detoxifies atrazine, mitigating its herbicidal effects. The EPA has routinely reviewed the evidence surrounding the weedkiller and re-approved its use by licensed pesticide applicators. Yet, the Biden Administration, in opposition to the EPA’s experts, has mandated restrictions that effectively ban atrazine. What has driven the administration to this decision?
Scientists have engineered yeast that give beer all sorts of exotic fruit flavors and eliminate the sour notes that can make some brews unappealing to consumers. The best part: these GMO-enhanced beverages have won consumer approval in the San Francisco Bay Area, a region of California well known for its skepticism of science. Could these beers help neutralize one of the epicenters of anti-biotech sentiment in the US?
Kevin M. Folta is a professor, keynote speaker and podcast host. Follow Professor Folta on Twitter @kevinfolta
Cameron J. English is the director of bio-sciences at the American Council on Science and Health. Visit his website and follow ACSH on Twitter @ACSHorg
