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Glyphosate and Sulfites: Hidden Dangers in Beer and Wine

As a fitness professional, I believe that understanding the impact of what we consume on our health is crucial to achieving optimal performance and well-being. One alarming topic gaining attention is the presence of glyphosate, a known carcinogen, in beer and wine. Coupled with the inflammatory properties of sulfites often found in these beverages, this issue deserves closer scrutiny.

The Glyphosate Problem

Glyphosate is the active ingredient in many herbicides, most notably Monsanto’s Roundup. While it was initially hailed as a breakthrough in agricultural technology, evidence has mounted over the years regarding its harmful effects on human health. In 2015, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), part of the World Health Organization, classified glyphosate as “probably carcinogenic to humans” (IARC, 2015). This classification has sparked significant controversy and debate, but subsequent studies have supported concerns about glyphosate’s role in increasing the risk of cancers, particularly non-Hodgkin lymphoma (Zhang et al., 2019).

Shockingly, traces of glyphosate have been found in beer and wine. A 2018 study conducted by the U.S. Public Interest Research Group (PIRG) tested five wines and 15 beers and found that glyphosate was present in 19 out of 20 beverages, including organic products (U.S. PIRG, 2018). Even organic products were not immune because of cross-contamination during farming or production. These findings are deeply concerning, as they highlight how pervasive this chemical is in our food and drink supply.

Why Is Glyphosate Dangerous?

The danger of glyphosate lies in its ability to interfere with biological processes critical to human health. Glyphosate is believed to act as an endocrine disruptor, altering hormonal balance and potentially leading to reproductive issues and developmental problems (Mesnage & Antoniou, 2018). Additionally, glyphosate can harm gut health by disrupting the microbiome, as it functions as an antibiotic, killing beneficial bacteria while allowing harmful strains to proliferate (Ackermann et al., 2014). This disruption can lead to inflammation throughout the body, which is linked to a host of chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders.

One of the most troubling aspects of glyphosate contamination in beer and wine is its synergistic effects when consumed with alcohol. Alcohol consumption already taxes the liver, which is the body’s primary detoxification organ. When glyphosate is added to the mix, the liver faces an even greater burden, potentially leading to increased oxidative stress and long-term damage.

The FDA’s Limited Oversight

Despite the growing body of evidence regarding glyphosate’s dangers, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has been criticized for its lax oversight. The FDA is tasked with ensuring the safety of the nation’s food supply, but it is woefully underfunded and understaffed, making comprehensive testing for contaminants like glyphosate nearly impossible.

A 2018 report by the Government Accountability Office (GAO) highlighted significant shortcomings in the FDA’s pesticide residue monitoring program, including limited sampling and outdated methods (GAO, 2018). These limitations mean that harmful substances like glyphosate can easily slip through the cracks, leaving consumers vulnerable.

Moreover, the regulatory threshold for glyphosate residues in food and beverages is a contentious issue. While the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets maximum residue limits, critics argue that these limits are too high and fail to account for the cumulative effects of long-term, low-dose exposure (Myers et al., 2016).

The Role of Sulfites in Inflammation

In addition to glyphosate, many beers and wines contain sulfites, which are used as preservatives to prevent spoilage and maintain flavor. While sulfites are generally recognized as safe for most people, they can have inflammatory effects, particularly in individuals with sensitivities.

Sulfites can trigger the release of inflammatory mediators, such as histamines and prostaglandins, in susceptible individuals (Vally et al., 2009). This can result in symptoms ranging from mild discomfort, such as headaches and nasal congestion, to severe reactions like asthma attacks. Even for those without a diagnosed sensitivity, chronic exposure to sulfites can contribute to low-grade inflammation, which has been implicated in the development of numerous chronic conditions, including arthritis, obesity, and cardiovascular disease.

How Inflammation Harms the Body

Inflammation is the body’s natural response to injury or infection. However, when inflammation becomes chronic, it can have deleterious effects on health. Persistent inflammation has been linked to:

Cardiovascular Disease: Chronic inflammation can damage blood vessels, leading to atherosclerosis, hypertension, and an increased risk of heart attack or stroke.

Diabetes: Inflammatory markers are often elevated in individuals with insulin resistance, contributing to the development of type 2 diabetes.

Autoimmune Disorders: Inflammation can cause the immune system to attack healthy tissues, leading to conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.

Neurodegenerative Diseases: Chronic inflammation has been associated with an increased risk of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases.

Cancer: Inflammation can create an environment conducive to cancer development by promoting cell proliferation and inhibiting apoptosis (cell death).

Reducing Your Risk

While the presence of glyphosate and sulfites in beer and wine is concerning, there are steps you can take to minimize your exposure:

Choose Organic: While not immune to contamination, organic wines and beers are less likely to contain glyphosate because synthetic pesticides are not used in their production.

Seek Sulfite-Free Options: Look for wines and beers labeled as “sulfite-free” or “low-sulfite.”

Limit Alcohol Consumption: Reducing your intake of beer and wine can lower your overall exposure to these harmful substances.

Support Policy Change: Advocate for stricter regulations on glyphosate use and increased funding for the FDA to enhance food safety oversight.

The presence of glyphosate and sulfites in beer and wine is a sobering reminder of the hidden dangers lurking in our food and drink supply. While regulatory agencies like the FDA play a critical role in protecting public health, their limited resources hinder their ability to effectively address these issues. As consumers, we must stay informed and take proactive steps to minimize our exposure to harmful substances. By making mindful choices and advocating for change, we can protect our health and promote a safer food system for all.

Megan Sherlock is a wellness professional passionate about somatic movement and holistic healing. She combines her expertise in fitness, yoga, and nutrition with the transformative power of energy work to help clients reconnect with their bodies and emotions. Megan holds certifications in NASM CPT, RYT 200, CGFI, CNC, BCS, CF1, ViPR, TriggerPoint SMR, Usui Reiki Master, and PN1.

References

https://pirg.org/edfund/resources/glyphosate-pesticide-in-beer-and-wine/

Ackermann, W., Coenen, M., Schrödl, W., Shehata, A. A., & Krüger, M. (2014). The influence of glyphosate on the microbiota and production of short-chain fatty acids in the rumen of dairy cows. Journal of Applied Microbiology, 117(6), 1481–1492.

Government Accountability Office. (2018). FDA and USDA should strengthen pesticide residue monitoring programs and further disclose limitations. GAO-18-680.

International Agency for Research on Cancer. (2015). Glyphosate. IARC Monographs on the Evaluation of Carcinogenic Risks to Humans, Volume 112.

Mesnage, R., & Antoniou, M. N. (2018). Facts and fallacies in the debate on glyphosate toxicity. Frontiers in Public Health, 6, 316.

Myers, J. P., Antoniou, M. N., Blumberg, B., Carroll, L., Colborn, T., Everett, L. G., … Benbrook, C. M. (2016). Concerns over use of glyphosate-based herbicides and risks associated with exposures: A consensus statement. Environmental Health, 15(1), 19.

U.S. Public Interest Research Group. (2018). Glyphosate pesticide in beer and wine. PIRG Education Fund.

Vally, H., Misso, N. L., & Madan, V. (2009). Clinical effects of sulphite additives. Clinical & Experimental Allergy, 39(11), 1643–1651.

Zhang, L., Rana, I., Shaffer, R. M., Taioli, E., & Sheppard, L. (2019). Exposure to glyphosate-based herbicides and risk for non-Hodgkin lymphoma: A meta-analysis and supporting evidence. Mutation Research/Reviews in Mutation Research, 781, 186–206.

Megan SherlockFebruary 6, 2025