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IARC Classifies Herbicide 2,4-D as “Possibly Carcinogenic”

Classification also used for coffee, aloe vera and pickled vegetables

The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) recently announced its decision to classify the herbicide 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid as possibly carcinogenic. The chemical is a key ingredient in many widely used herbicides, including a new formula created by Dow AgroSciences. In March, the IARC gave the same classification to another popular herbicide, glyphosate.

Classifications made by the IARC do not carry any regulatory requirements. However, these classifications do have the ability to influence lawmakers and the public. The new classification of 2,4-D has been awaited by environmental and consumer groups that are lobbying U.S. regulators to tighten its use.

The IARC has five categories for classification, ranging from probably not carcinogenic to carcinogenic. As discussed by GMOAnswers, many household items have been classified as probably carcinogenic, including coffee, aloe vera and pickled vegetables.

Click here to read more about the IARC’s classification decision for 2,4-D.

Click here to read GMOAnswers’ response to the classification.

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