EU delays decision to re-approve ‘toxic’ copper compounds
According to officials, EU countries have delayed a decision on whether or not to reauthorize the us…According to officials, EU countries have delayed a decision on whether or not to reauthorize the use of copper compounds, the chemical substances widely used as pesticides in the organic food sector.
A decision on approving the substances, which are used by organic growers across the food chain and in the wine industry as well, has split organic campaigners against pesticide companies such as Monsanto, noting that the copper-based chemicals are toxic and pose risks for workers.
Last year, the European Food Safety Authority stated that the use of copper sulfates on crops poses a number of risks, including to people who work directly with the chemical. Vineyard workers, in particular, were mentioned by the European Food Safety Authority as being particularly vulnerable.
Source: geneticliteracyproject.org