Active ingredient in Roundup weed killer found in popular beers and wine, researchers say

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Traces of an ingredient found in weed killers have been discovered in popular beers and wine, according to a study by U.S. Public Interest Research Group (U.S. PIRG).

The pesticide and herbicide glyphosate, a key ingredient in Roundup, was found in 19 of the 20 wines and beers tested, even in organic brands.

Though the levels of glyphosate in the drinks tested aren’t necessarily dangerous, the World Health Organization said in a 2015 report that the pesticide is “probably carcinogenic to humans." In 2017, the California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment announced glyphosate “would be added to the list of chemicals known to the state to cause cancer.”

But many health professionals have urged consumers not to panic and encourage more thorough research into the matter before cutting out any of these popular foods or drinks.

Five wine brands including Beringer, Barefoot and Sutter Home and 15 beer brands including Guinness, Budweiser, Coors, Samuel Adams and Miller Lite were tested in the study.