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Extensive Research Points: Why We Don’t Want the HSNO and Gene Tech Bills in NZ

Sat, 30 May 2026 11:18:42 GMT

NZ Is Currently GE Free - We Don't Want GE Which Goes Hand In Hand With Chemically Dependent Systems

The HSNO Bill

It is anti democratic, under the bill:

• Applications are only publicly notified if the Authority wants to

• Chemicals & GMOs can be released without full approval

View The HSNO Summary

Submission Template, Submissions close June 15, 2026

The Gene Tech Bill
Can't be made safe, under the bill:

• GE and pesticide resistant crops would be released in NZ

• Non-notifiable approvals allowed

• Reduced public notification and transparency in decisions.

• It is non democratic

Email your MP

Glyphosate
Weed Killer In Food

• NZ proposed to raise allowed glyphosate residue levels by up to 100x in some grains (e.g. wheat) and 60× for dry field peas.

• After public submissions, they kept the cereal limit at the old level (0.1 mg/kg), but still approved 6 mg/kg for dry peas - which is 60x higher than the current limit.

ACVM Bill
Agricultural Compounds and Veterinary Medicines Amendment Bill

• Submissions closed June 1, 2026

The bill forms part of a broader shift in how agricultural and veterinary products are regulated in New Zealand. Wording is not precise to prevent the unintended approval or release of genetically modified organisms. This means a significant regulatory gap.

Email your MP - ask for an extension for this fast-tracked bill

The HSNO Bill

It is anti democratic, under the bill:

• Applications are only publicly notified if the Authority wants to

• Chemicals & GMOs can be released without full approval

View The HSNO Summary

Submission Template, Submissions closed June 15, 2026

Email your MP - ask for an extension for this fast tracked bill

The Gene Tech Bill
Can't be made safe, under the bill:

• GE and pesticide resistant crops would be released in NZ

• Non-notifiable approvals allowed

• Reduced public notification and transparency in decisions.

• It is non democratic

Email your MP

Glyphosate
Weed Killer In Food

• NZ proposed to raise allowed glyphosate residue levels by up to 100x in some grains (e.g. wheat) and 60× for dry field peas

• After public submissions, they kept the cereal limit at the old level (0.1 mg/kg), but still approved 6 mg/kg for dry peas - which is 60x higher than the current limit

ACVM Bill
Agricultural Compounds and Veterinary Medicines Amendment Bill

• Submissions closed June 1, 2026

The bill forms part of a broader shift in how agricultural and veterinary products are regulated in New Zealand, wording is not precise to prevent the unintended approval or release of genetically modified organisms. This means a significant regulatory gap.

Email your MP - ask for an extension for this fast tracked bill

“We observed early onset and early mortality for a number of rare malignant cancers, including leukemia, liver, ovary and nervous system tumors. Notably, approximately half of the deaths from leukemia seen in the glyphosate and GBHs treatment groups occurred at less than one year of age, comparable to less than 35–40 years of age in humans.”

Dr. Daniele Mandrioli, Principal Investigator, Global Glyphosate Study

“The association between golf course proximity and Parkinson disease was stronger in areas with vulnerable groundwater and public drinking water supplies."

“Residential proximity to golf courses was associated with increased odds of Parkinson disease, with higher odds observed among those living closer to multiple golf courses.”

Gene Escape, Superweeds and Chemical Dependence:
The Nasty GMO Problem

GE crops increased pesticide use instead of reducing it.

A 16-year analysis of U.S. agriculture found that genetically engineered crops increased overall pesticide use by approximately 183 million kilograms (404 million pounds). Herbicide-resistant crops drove a 239 million kilogram increase in herbicide use, outweighing reductions in insecticide use.

Herbicide use surged as resistant weeds spread.

Herbicide use on herbicide-tolerant GE crops increased from 1.5 million pounds in 1999 to 90 million pounds in 2011. Researchers linked this rise to the spread of glyphosate-resistant weeds.

More than 40 species of glyphosate-resistant weeds have emerged worldwide.

The widespread adoption of herbicide-tolerant GE crops has been associated with the evolution of resistant "superweeds", forcing farmers to spray more often and use additional herbicides.

Farmers turned to older toxic herbicides.

As glyphosate became less effective, growers increasingly relied on herbicides such as 2,4-D and dicamba to control resistant weeds, creating what researchers described as a "chemical treadmill".

The promised reduction in chemical use did not occur.

The research concluded that herbicide-tolerant GE crops increased chemical dependence in agriculture rather than reducing it, raising concerns for soil health, ecosystems, and long-term sustainability.

Economic and Sustainability Considerations

New Zealand's organic sector reached approximately NZ$1.18 billion in value in 2024, demonstrating the growing demand for organic and sustainably produced food both domestically and internationally and the need to protect it the two can't co-exist.
NZ sustainability-linked sectors, including responsible investment, tourism, sustainable construction, and organic markets, depend on trusted low-chemical food systems.

Research into responsible investment preferences has also shown strong public support for ethical and environmentally responsible economic activity. A 2024 survey reported that 75% of New Zealanders wanted to avoid investing in companies involved in genetic engineering.

The broader sustainability sector is also economically significant. Members of the Sustainable Business Council collectively represent approximately NZ$169 billion in annual turnover, highlighting the scale of businesses that view sustainability and environmental responsibility as important long-term economic priorities.
Responsible investment: NZ$153.5 billion in ESG-aligned funds, with NZ$4.74 billion in impact investments. Many exclude high chemical/GMO exposure; changes could trigger divestment.

"Our study shows that an allergen from a food known to be allergenic can be transferred into another food by genetic engineering."

"Larvae of monarch butterflies fed milkweed leaves dusted with pollen from Bt corn ate less, grew more slowly, and suffered higher mortality.”

Bt cotton is a genetically modified cotton that:

Increased mirid bug severity
Linked to reduced insecticide spraying after Bt adoption
Was part of a “pest complex shift”

Dicamba damaged non-agricultural plants and trees, such as those that grow near homes and in wild areas, including a 160,000-acre wildlife refuge; and

More than 280 incident reports came from counties where additional restrictions are required to protect endangered species when dicamba is applied to dicamba-tolerant soybean and cotton crops.

EPA (USA) has reason to believe the number of incidents reported significantly understates the actual number of incidents related to dicamba use.

Findings reported in literature examining intensive GM soybean agriculture and glyphosate use in Argentina:

Cancer incidence and mortality reported as 2–3× higher than national averages in studied agricultural regions.

Compared with national averages, the study found:

Spontaneous abortions: ~10% vs ~3% nationally (≈3× higher)
Congenital abnormalities: ~3–4.3% vs ~1.4% nationally (≈2–3× higher)

Glyphosate levels were:

Higher in town soil than surrounding rural fields
Suggesting urban contamination from agricultural handling and spray drift

Main reasons for retraction:

Undisclosed financial ties to Monsanto
Monsanto was acquired by Bayer in 2018
Ghostwriting by Monsanto employees
Misrepresentation of author independence
Reliance mainly on unpublished Monsanto-provided studies
Omission or minimisation of other existing toxicity/carcinogenicity research available at the time

Dr. Daniele Mandrioli, Principal Investigator, Global Glyphosate Study

Gene Escape, Superweeds and Chemical Dependence:
The Nasty GMO Problem

GE crops increased pesticide use instead of reducing it.

A 16-year analysis of U.S. agriculture found that genetically engineered crops increased overall pesticide use by approximately 183 million kilograms (404 million pounds). Herbicide-resistant crops drove a 239 million kilogram increase in herbicide use, outweighing reductions in insecticide use.

Herbicide use surged as resistant weeds spread.

Herbicide use on herbicide-tolerant GE crops increased from 1.5 million pounds in 1999 to 90 million pounds in 2011. Researchers linked this rise to the spread of glyphosate-resistant weeds.

More than 40 species of glyphosate-resistant weeds have emerged worldwide.

The widespread adoption of herbicide-tolerant GE crops has been associated with the evolution of resistant "superweeds", forcing farmers to spray more often and use additional herbicides.

Farmers turned to older toxic herbicides.

As glyphosate became less effective, growers increasingly relied on herbicides such as 2,4-D and dicamba to control resistant weeds, creating what researchers described as a "chemical treadmill".

The promised reduction in chemical use did not occur.

The research concluded that herbicide-tolerant GE crops increased chemical dependence in agriculture rather than reducing it, raising concerns for soil health, ecosystems, and long-term sustainability.

Economic and Sustainability Considerations

New Zealand's organic sector reached approximately NZ$1.18 billion in value in 2024, demonstrating the growing demand for organic and sustainably produced food both domestically and internationally and the need to protect it the two can't co-exist.
NZ sustainability-linked sectors, including responsible investment, tourism, sustainable construction, and organic markets, depend on trusted low-chemical food systems.

Research into responsible investment preferences has also shown strong public support for ethical and environmentally responsible economic activity. A 2024 survey reported that 75% of New Zealanders wanted to avoid investing in companies involved in genetic engineering.

The broader sustainability sector is also economically significant. Members of the Sustainable Business Council collectively represent approximately NZ$169 billion in annual turnover, highlighting the scale of businesses that view sustainability and environmental responsibility as important long-term economic priorities.
Responsible investment: NZ$153.5 billion in ESG-aligned funds, with NZ$4.74 billion in impact investments. Many exclude high chemical/GMO exposure; changes could trigger divestment.

"Our study shows that an allergen from a food known to be allergenic can be transferred into another food by genetic engineering."

"Larvae of monarch butterflies fed milkweed leaves dusted with pollen from Bt corn ate less, grew more slowly, and suffered higher mortality.”

Bt cotton is a genetically modified cotton that:

Increased mirid bug severity
Linked to reduced insecticide spraying after Bt adoption
Was part of a “pest complex shift”

Bt cotton in China led to secondary pest outbreaks (especially mirid bugs), which caused farmers to switch from reduced bollworm sprays to increased use of other insecticides such as organophosphates, pyrethroids, and later neonicotinoids—resulting in a shift in chemical use and ongoing ecosystem disruption rather than an overall reduction.

Dicamba damaged non-agricultural plants and trees, such as those that grow near homes and in wild areas, including a 160,000-acre wildlife refuge; and

More than 280 incident reports came from counties where additional restrictions are required to protect endangered species when dicamba is applied to dicamba-tolerant soybean and cotton crops.

EPA (USA) has reason to believe the number of incidents reported significantly understates the actual number of incidents related to dicamba use.

Findings reported in literature examining intensive GM soybean agriculture and glyphosate use in Argentina:

Cancer incidence and mortality reported as 2–3× higher than national averages in studied agricultural regions.

Compared with national averages, the study found:

Spontaneous abortions: ~10% vs ~3% nationally (≈3× higher)
Congenital abnormalities: ~3–4.3% vs ~1.4% nationally (≈2–3× higher)

Glyphosate levels were:

Higher in town soil than surrounding rural fields
Suggesting urban contamination from agricultural handling and spray drift

Main reasons for retraction:

Undisclosed financial ties to Monsanto
Monsanto was acquired by Bayer in 2018
Ghostwriting by Monsanto employees
Misrepresentation of author independence
Reliance mainly on unpublished Monsanto-provided studies
Omission or minimisation of other existing toxicity/carcinogenicity research available at the time

Why New Zealanders Oppose Genetic Engineering and the HSNO Amendment Bill

Fri, 29 May 2026 13:20:58 GMT

New Zealand is currently a GE-free country.

For decades, New Zealand has maintained its status and built an international reputation for clean food production, strong biosecurity standards, and high environmental protections. However, proposed changes through the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms (HSNO) Amendment Bill have raised horror among New Zealanders who know these changes would forever alter the country's approach to genetic engineering and put New Zealand's GE-free status at high risk.

Many New Zealanders are concerned that supporters of these legislative changes are underestimating the potential risks and long-term consequences for New Zealand's food system, environment, and international reputation.

Some supporters of these legislative changes have financial interests connected to agriculture, biotechnology, or chemical-dependent farming systems. Others may simply have a different understanding of the risks involved. Regardless of motivation, many New Zealanders remain deeply concerned about the long-term consequences for public health, biodiversity, food sovereignty, and the future of organic farming.

But do we really want chemically dependent GMO systems?
Bayer and its subsidiary Monsanto have faced significant litigation relating to glyphosate products. Many New Zealanders are concerned about the potential public health, environmental, and economic consequences of increasing dependence on agricultural chemical systems.

New Zealanders are particularly concerned about expanded rapid assessment and light-touch approval pathways, increased reliance on overseas regulators, reduced public notification requirements, increased delegation of decision-making powers, and pathways that may allow some conditionally released genetically engineered organisms to later be released with fewer or no HSNO controls. Critics state that these changes would reduce transparency, weaken public participation, and diminish independent oversight of decisions that have long-term consequences for New Zealand's environment and food system.

Organic and genetically engineered agriculture can NOT successfully coexist. Organic certification systems prohibit the use of genetically engineered organisms, and contamination events overseas have demonstrated that maintaining separation becomes difficult once GE crops are introduced into an agricultural system. Pollen drift, seed movement, and supply-chain mixing have all contributed to contamination concerns internationally. Critics state that New Zealand's existing reputation for natural and organic production would be compromised if genetic engineering becomes more widespread.

Health considerations are another area of concern. People who rely heavily on organic foods for health reasons should retain access to a food system that remains free from genetic engineering. Opponents of deregulation state that introducing GE organisms into the food chain would reduce consumer choice and alter a system that many New Zealanders have intentionally supported for decades.

Horizontal Gene Transfer

Questions have also been raised about the biological risks associated with genetic engineering. Horizontal gene transfer is a stark warning that New Zealand should not ignore. HGT involves the movement of genetic material between unrelated organisms and has been identified by some researchers as a potential pathway for unintended ecological effects. Concerns raised in scientific literature include the potential spread of antibiotic resistance genes, unintended genetic interactions, ecological disruption, and broader environmental consequences. >Read More

Agricultural Chemical Use

Research examining genetically engineered crops in the United States found that herbicide-resistant crop systems contributed to increased herbicide use over time as resistant weeds emerged. A widely cited analysis by Charles Benbrook examining the first sixteen years of GE crop adoption in the United States found that herbicide-resistant crops increased herbicide applications substantially, outweighing reductions achieved through insect-resistant crops. This has led astute observers to question whether genetic engineering ultimately reduces chemical dependence or simply changes the types and quantities of chemicals used.

Pesticides and Chronic Disease

Independent studies have investigated links between pesticide exposure and a range of adverse health outcomes, including neurological disorders, Parkinson's disease, certain cancers, reproductive effects, neurotoxicity, and endocrine disruption. These concerns remain significant because some genetically engineered crop systems are designed to operate alongside increased herbicide use.

Benefits Of Organic Farming

Biodiversity is known to benefit from organic farming. Several meta-analyses have found that organic farming increases the abundance of organisms by approximately 50% and species richness by approximately 30%. These findings suggest that organic farming systems can support healthier ecosystems, improve habitat quality for beneficial insects and wildlife, and contribute to the long-term resilience of agricultural landscapes.

Economic and Sustainability Considerations

New Zealanders are also concerned about the potential economic consequences of weakening protections around genetic engineering. New Zealand's organic sector reached approximately NZ$1.18 billion in value in 2024, demonstrating the growing demand for organic and sustainably produced food both domestically and internationally.

Research into responsible investment preferences has also shown strong public support for ethical and environmentally responsible economic activity. A 2024 survey reported that 75% of New Zealanders wanted to avoid investing in companies involved in genetic engineering. The same research found strong preferences for avoiding investments associated with environmental degradation, labour rights violations, and human rights concerns. >View More

The broader sustainability sector is also economically significant. Members of the Sustainable Business Council collectively represent approximately NZ$169 billion in annual turnover, highlighting the scale of businesses that view sustainability and environmental responsibility as important long-term economic priorities.

International Practices

Many countries continue to maintain restrictions, bans, or strict controls on genetically engineered organisms for environmental, biodiversity, agricultural, and public health reasons. International examples such as Mexico's constitutional protections for native maize varieties reflect growing concern about preserving biodiversity, food sovereignty, and traditional agricultural systems.

Supporters of organic and low-input farming frequently point to international examples demonstrating that profitable food production can occur with reduced pesticide use. Research from Europe has shown that some pesticide-free farming systems can maintain productivity while reducing environmental impacts. Advocates say that New Zealand should invest further in these approaches rather than expanding technologies that will increase reliance on chemical inputs. >View More

Protecting New Zealand's Future

New Zealand should be strengthening precautionary protections, transparency, public participation, and independent oversight rather than reducing them. Decisions affecting the nation's food system, environment, and future generations should be made cautiously, with full democratic processes and meaningful public involvement.

New Zealand has built an international reputation around environmental quality, sustainable food production, and clean agricultural systems. New Zealanders are concerned that weakening oversight of hazardous substances and new organisms would damage public trust, food sovereignty, environmental protections, biodiversity, and the future of organic and non-GMO farming.

For these reasons, opponents of the HSNO Amendment Bill believe New Zealand should protect its GE-free status and continue pursuing a future based on sustainability, transparency, biodiversity protection, and clean food production. Food is health. Food is life. It is not something to mess with.

NZ government: RUN in the opposite direction of those that would take advantage and embrace the clear benefits of organic produce and never lose our 'Clean, Green, NZ.' via our GE free status.

It is better to admit mistakes rather than forever change a legacy and harm people. Abolish The HSNO and Gene Technology Bills.

The cancer risks alone are enormous for chemically GMO dependent systems.

Natural Farming Success: Andhra Pradesh, India

A large-scale natural farming programme in Andhra Pradesh reported significant reductions in fertiliser use while maintaining comparable yields and improving farm profitability.

Key reported outcomes:

Fertiliser use reduced by 23.5% overall, increasing to 30.1% lower than conventional farms by 2024–25.

Crop-specific fertiliser reductions included 38.3% for paddy, 29.6% for maize, 28.6% for cotton, and 26.0% for chilli crops.

Fertiliser expenditure was 18.9% lower than conventional farming.
Total cultivation c osts were reduced by 11.2%.
Gross returns increased by 8.6%.
Net farm income increased by approximately ₹17,000 per hectare, with some crops showing substantially larger gains.

Yields remained broadly comparable despite significantly lower fertiliser use.

Studies cited in the report found improvements in soil health, including higher soil organic carbon and increased nutrient availability.

Research referenced in the report reported improved resilience to drought and extreme weather events.

Life-cycle assessments cited in the report found greenhouse gas emissions reductions of approximately 46% per acre.

The report concluded that natural farming reduced fertiliser dependence, lowered production costs, maintained yields, improved profitability, enhanced soil health, strengthened climate resilience, reduced emissions, and provided a scalable pathway toward more sustainable agriculture.

Ref: https://apcnf.in/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Fertliser-Consumption-Costs-Returns-Final-Report_30_03_2026_CESS-1.pdf

A scientific paper assessing the safety of glyphosate, the active ingredient in Roundup, was formally retracted in 2025, 25 years after its publication. The 2000 study had concluded that glyphosate was safe for humans. This has been retracted.
> READ MORE

Chronic Diseases Linked to Pesticides

Independent studies have associated pesticide exposure with increased risks of several serious health conditions.

Including:

Leukemia
Non-Hodgkin lymphoma
Parkinson's disease
Neurological damage
Reproductive harm
Endocrine disruption

A major review found that most studies on non-Hodgkin lymphoma and leukemia showed positive associations with pesticide exposure, with some studies also reporting dose-response relationships.

A 2025 study also found people living within one mile of a golf course had 126% higher odds of developing Parkinson's disease than those living more than six miles away.

>VIEW MORE

When Genetic Modification Goes Wrong: Overseas Lessons NZ Should Not Ignore

Fri, 22 May 2026 05:08:07 GMT

Genetic modification is sometimes promoted as modern, precise, and 'necessary', in case 'NZ gets behind the times!' As a country known for its pioneering success, it is easy to see why we need to protect our GE-free status and not be taken advantage of.

It is possible that companies seeking to cash in on patents or natural resources could take advantage of New Zealand's GE-free status, without care for the consequences.

But overseas experience tells us to be highly cautious. Around the world, (much larger) countries have restricted, banned, or reversed the cultivation of genetically modified crops due to concerns about contamination, biodiversity loss, chemical dependence, trade disruption, and harm to farmers.

Why Organic and GE Cannot Coexist in NZ

Mexico is one of the clearest examples. In March 2025, Mexico adopted a constitutional amendment banning the domestic cultivation of genetically modified corn, recognising Mexico as a centre of origin and diversity for maize and prioritising the protection of native varieties. This matters because once GE crops enter open agricultural systems, pollen drift, seed movement and supply-chain mixing make full containment extremely difficult. In a small, export-focused country like NZ, genuine coexistence between organic and GE systems is effectively impossible once contamination pathways are considered.

Organic producers and consumers understand that even small levels of contamination can threaten certification, export trust and long-term biodiversity. Organic producers and consumers know that GE is the enemy of nature. If GE pollen or seed contamination enters organic crops, those crops can lose organic certification and international market value. Once contamination spreads, it cannot simply be undone.

Did you know that New Zealand's organic sector has reached a record NZ$1.18 billion in value.

So what if you don't know much about organic farming and you are trying to figure out why changing New Zealand's GE status is beyond repair if the Gene Technology Bill proceeds in NZ rather than being scrapped?

Check out these overseas facts:

Mexico's position was not just symbolic. Researchers have found evidence of transgenes in Mexican maize landraces, warning that GMO planting in the crop centres of origin creates risks of unintended gene flow into traditional varieties. For a country whose food culture, seed heritage and biodiversity are built around corn, this is a serious warning.

Peru has also taken a precautionary approach. Its GMO moratorium was extended until 2035, restricting the import and production of GMOs for environmental release. The European Union also allows member states to restrict or prohibit GMO cultivation, and the European Commission lists many countries and regions that have requested geographical restrictions.

The contamination record is equally concerning. In the United States, StarLink corn was approved only for animal feed, not for human food, due to concerns about allergenicity. Yet in 2000, it was found in the human food supply, triggering major recalls and exposing the weakness of "controlled use" promises.

A similar problem occurred with LibertyLink LL601 rice. In 2006, unapproved genetically modified rice was detected in US rice stocks, causing trade disruption, especially with the European Union. These cases show that even when a GE crop is not meant for a particular market or food stream, contamination still happens.

Burkina Faso provides another warning. Bt cotton was promoted as a success, but the country later phased it out after cotton quality problems damaged its export value. A research review of the Bt cotton "success narrative" found that quality and yield issues challenged the claims made for the technology.

Herbicide-resistant GE crops have also driven a chemical treadmill. A major review found that herbicide-resistant crops affect weed management and contribute to biodiversity loss in several ways. Another study found that GE herbicide-resistant crops are associated with the evolution of herbicide-resistant weeds in the United States.

These overseas examples are highly relevant to NZ. Once GE crops are released outdoors, the risks are not confined to a laboratory. They involve farms, neighbouring land, seed systems, export markets, food processors, organic growers and public trust.

NZ does not need to repeat the mistakes seen overseas. Mexico, Peru and many European countries show that precaution is not anti-science. It is a responsible response to real-world evidence: contamination happens, resistance develops, promised benefits fail, and traditional food systems can be placed at risk.

A safer food future requires strong regulation, full traceability, liability for contamination, and protection for non-GE and organic producers. The international record shows that weakening gene technology safeguards would not reduce risk. It would move the risk onto farmers, consumers, ecosystems and future generations. But it is not about risk - there is enough information to know that losing New Zealand's GE-free status is not reasonable.

Pesticide-resistant crops mean even more sprays, such as glyphosate (weed killer), are used. The Gene Technology Bill proposes the development of pesticide-resistant crops. Who is this benefiting? Not New Zealanders.

More than 100,000 plaintiffs in the US have filed claims alleging Roundup (containing glyphosate) caused cancer.

Some reports now place the total number of claims at around 170,000.

Bayer has reportedly paid more than US$11 billion in settlements and jury awards related to Roundup litigation.

Bayer announced a further proposed US$7.25 billion settlement in 2026 aimed at resolving tens of thousands of current and future claims.

Reuters reported that Bayer has already allocated around US$16 billion toward Roundup litigation overall.

Examples of verdicts and awards include:

A Missouri plaintiff, John Durnell, was awarded US$1.25 million after alleging Roundup exposure caused non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
Four plaintiffs in Missouri were awarded US$611 million in a Roundup cancer verdict.

The disease most commonly referenced in the litigation is non-Hodgkin lymphoma, although lawsuits and legal sites also reference:

B-cell lymphoma
Multiple myeloma
Leukemia variants
But it does not stop there - pesticide/herbicide use is seriously linked to all sorts of issues >Read More.

Allergens

In the early 1990s, researchers at the University of Nebraska inserted a gene from the Brazil nut into soybeans to enhance their methionine content, an essential amino acid. However, the modified soybeans expressed a protein that was a known allergen in Brazil nuts. When tested, individuals with Brazil nut allergies experienced allergic reactions upon exposure to the GM soybeans. This led to the termination of the project, demonstrating the potential for unintended allergenicity in GM foods. Read More

Many countries have said no to GE

For example, the Peruvian Congress has renewed its ban on genetically modified organisms (GMOs) until December 21st, 2035

Countries that have banned or reduced GE and Glyphosate:

References:

OANZ market report

https://www.oanz.org/nzmarket-report-2025

Mexico's constitutional GMO corn ban

https://apps.fas.usda.gov/newgainapi/api/Report/DownloadReportByFileName?fileName=Mexico+Enacts+Constitutional+Amendment+on+the+Protection+of+Native+Corn_Mexico+City_Mexico_MX2025-0014.pdf

Mexico transgene contamination study

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3001031/

Peru GMO moratorium extension

https://gm.agbioinvestor.com/news/peru-extends-gmo-moratorium-by-15-years

European Union GMO cultivation restrictions

https://food.ec.europa.eu/plants/genetically-modified-organisms/gmo-authorisation/gmo-authorisations-cultivation_en

StarLink corn contamination

https://ccr.ucdavis.edu/biotechnology/starlink-corn-what-happened

StarLink corn recall overview

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/StarLink_corn_recall

LibertyLink LL601 rice contamination study

https://ageconsearch.umn.edu/record/57154/files/jaae255.pdf

Burkina Faso Bt cotton failure study

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/am/pii/S0305750X20302540

Herbicide-resistant crops and biodiversity review

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5250645/

Herbicide-resistant weed evolution study

https://bioone.org/journals/weed-science/volume-66/issue-2/wsc.2017.70/Genetically-Engineered-Herbicide-Resistant-Crops-and-Herbicide-Resistant-Weed-Evolution/10.1017/wsc.2017.70.full

Monsanto/Bayer Roundup lawsuit overview

https://www.sokolovelaw.com/product-liability/monsanto-roundup/

Reuters on Bayer Roundup litigation

https://www.reuters.com/legal/government/roundup-maker-goes-supreme-court-americans-worry-about-pesticides-reutersipsos-2026-04-24/

Reuters on Bayer settlement proposal

https://www.reuters.com/business/healthcare-pharmaceuticals/bayer-make-105-bln-push-settle-roundup-cases-bloomberg-reports-2026-02-17/

AP News on Bayer litigation costs

https://apnews.com/article/c08ef6e35ccc166a4793dd76748ccce2

Roundup payout examples

https://www.robertkinglawfirm.com/personal-injury/roundup-lawsuit/what-is-the-average-payout-for-a-roundup-lawsuit/

Motley Rice Roundup lawsuits

https://www.motleyrice.com/toxic-exposure/roundup-lawsuits

25 Years Later: Glyphosate Safety Study Retracted

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 09:49:58 GMT

The retraction followed evidence from court documents released in 2017 showing that company employees had contributed to the paper without being listed as authors — a practice known as ghostwriting. Despite these concerns being publicly known for several years, the journal did not issue a retraction until 2025.

Before its withdrawal, the paper was widely cited and relied upon by regulators in assessing glyphosate’s safety. Its retraction highlights the importance of transparency, independence, and caution when research is used to inform public health and environmental policy.

What is glyphosate?

Glyphosate is the active ingredient in many weedkillers used in NZ, including Roundup. Roundup was originally developed by Monsanto, which has since been acquired by Bayer.

Read more about independent research indicating harm associated with glyphosate use.

C&EN: Glyphosate study from 2000 retracted amid corporate influence concerns

https://cen.acs.org/research-integrity/misconduct/Glyphosate-study-2000-retracted-amid/103/web/2025/12?utm_source=chatgpt.com

Glyphosate Health Risks

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 10:10:29 GMT

Reference List

Glyphosate Health Risks

Exposure to glyphosate increases the risk of a cancer called non-Hodgkin lymphoma by 41 percent https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1383574218300887
Ramazzini Institute (2018) – Early-life exposures disrupt development, gut microbiome, hormone levels, and DNA integrity: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5972398/?utm_source
Panzacchi et al., 2025 – Lifetime exposure to glyphosate at low doses in rats caused benign and malignant tumours: https://ehjournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12940-025-01187-2
NHANES Analysis, 2013–14 – Higher urinary glyphosate associated with memory loss, depression, and hearing difficulties: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S001393512301664X
Ecuador Teen Study – Adolescent glyphosate exposure linked to poorer attention, memory, language, and inhibitory control: https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1003778
Rodent study – Maternal glyphosate exposure caused autism-like behaviours in offspring: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32398374/
Environmental Health (2022) – Glyphosate detected in 99% of pregnant women; higher exposure associated with shorter pregnancies:
https://ehjournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12940-022-00906-3?utm_source
Oxidative organ damage – Glyphosate provokes oxidative damage in rat liver and kidneys: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4756530/?utm_source
Glyphosate in breast milk – Linked to infant deaths in India:
https://beyondpesticides.org/dailynewsblog/2023/02/pesticides-in-breast-milk-linked-to-over-100-newborn-deaths-in-less-than-a-year/

GMOs, Chemical Dependance and Gene Escape: What Science Is Warning Us About

Sat, 23 Aug 2025 03:18:55 GMT

The Hidden Hazards of Genetic Engineering

Dr. Mae-Wan Ho warns that genetic engineering inherently promotes horizontal gene transfer (HGT)—the movement of genetic material across unrelated species—which can create new pathogens, spread antibiotic resistance, and destabilize ecosystems. Unlike natural HGT, which is regulated and limited by species barriers, genetic engineering uses artificial vectors that are designed to cross species boundaries and invade genomes, often carrying viral, bacterial, or disease-related genes.

Potential Hazards:

Creation of new viruses and bacteria capable of causing disease.
Spread of antibiotic resistance among pathogens.
Insertional mutagenesis in cells, potentially leading to cancer.
Reactivation of dormant viruses.
Broad ecological impacts due to unintended gene flow

Ref: https://biosafety-info.net/articles/biosafety-science/horizontal-gene-transfer/horizontal-gene-transfer-the-hidden-hazards-of-genetic-engineering/?

GE crops have fueled greater chemical dependence:

A 2012 study by Charles Benbrook examined U.S. data from 1996–2011 on genetically engineered (GE) crops, including herbicide-resistant soy, corn, and cotton, as well as insect-resistant Bt varieties. Contrary to claims that GMOs reduce chemical use, the study found that herbicide-resistant crops increased herbicide applications by 239 million kilograms due to glyphosate-resistant weeds, while Bt crops only modestly reduced insecticide use by 56 million kilograms.

Overall, pesticide use rose by about 7%, showing that GE crops have fueled greater chemical dependence rather than reducing it. The research highlights the ecological and health risks of herbicide-heavy GE farming and supports calls to reconsider policies that promote these crops.

Ref: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/257885039_Impacts_of_genetically_engineered_crops_on_pesticide_use_in_the_US-the_first_sixteen_years

"Superweeds" and Glyphosate Resistance

Studies confirm widespread glyphosate-resistant weeds (over 40 species worldwide), forcing farmers to resort to older, more toxic herbicides like 2,4-D and dicamba. This chemical treadmill is directly linked to herbicide-resistant GMO crops.

A landmark study by Dr. Charles Benbrook (Washington State University, 2012) examined 16 years of U.S. Department of Agriculture data on genetically engineered herbicide-tolerant crops. The findings were stark:

Herbicide use skyrocketed—from 1.5 million pounds in 1999 to 90 million pounds in 2011.
The increase was driven by the rapid spread of glyphosate-resistant “superweeds”, directly linked to widespread planting of GE soy, corn, and cotton.
Farmers were forced to spray higher volumes more frequently and add older, more toxic herbicides like 2,4-D and dicamba to control resistant weeds.

What was promised as a technology to reduce chemicals instead created a chemical treadmill—locking agriculture into escalating pesticide dependence.

This research demonstrates that herbicide-tolerant GMOs have not only failed to reduce chemical use, but have entrenched it deeper into the food system, with consequences for soil, ecosystems, and human health.

Ref: https://phys.org/news/2012-10-superweeds-linked-herbicide-gm-crops.html

Benbrook, C. (2012).
Impacts of genetically engineered crops on pesticide use in the U.S.—the first sixteen years. Environmental Sciences Europe.

David Suzuki has expressed strong concerns about GMOs, stating:

“Products of biotechnology are being rammed into our food, onto our fields and into our medicines ... But there are profound health, ecological and economic ramifications of this activity.”

He also warned that:

“Any politician or scientist who tells you these products are safe is either very stupid or lying.”

Canadian environmentalist and geneticist

Why The Gene Technology Bill is Unsafe – NZ

Thu, 21 Aug 2025 23:03:13 GMT

The New Zealand Government is promoting its Gene Technology Bill as an “update to match science and technology.” In reality, this law would deregulate genetically engineered (GE) crops in ways that ignore well-documented harms and global experience.

Independent research and international case studies demonstrate that GE crops are not only failing to deliver safety promises but are also directly linked to ecological damage, health risks, and costly regulatory failures.

An example of just one study's conclusion following chronic ultra-low dose Roundup exposure: "Our results suggest that chronic exposure to a GBH in an established laboratory animal toxicity model system at an ultra-low, environmental dose can result in liver and kidney damage with potential significant health implications for animal and human populations."

Ecological Harms Already Seen from GE Crops

Monarch butterfly decline

The expansion of glyphosate-tolerant GE corn and soy in North America has been directly linked to the loss of milkweed – the only plant monarch caterpillars can eat. Large-scale eradication of milkweed has contributed to monarch population crashes.

Secondary pest outbreaks

In northern China, the widespread planting of Bt cotton initially reduced bollworm pressure, but new “secondary” pests surged in response. Mirid bugs spread across multiple crops, showing that altering pest dynamics with GE traits can destabilise ecosystems.

Herbicide drift and off-target damage

The adoption of dicamba-tolerant GE crops in the U.S. led to millions of acres of unintended damage from drifting spray. Farmers and conservationists reported widespread harm to orchards, vineyards, vegetables, and native plants—problems so severe that regulators were forced into ongoing restrictions and court cases.

Gene escapes into the wild

Surveys in North America have found feral GE canola populations growing along roadsides, some carrying stacked herbicide-resistant traits. This persistence demonstrates that GE traits are not fully contained and can spread into unmanaged environments.

Documented Human and Food Safety Concerns

Food chain contamination

The “StarLink” case in the U.S. revealed how a GE corn variety approved only for animal feed entered the human food supply. The contamination resulted in nearly 300 product recalls, significant trade disruptions, and allergy investigations.

Residues in GE soybeans

Market basket analyses reveal that Roundup Ready soybeans frequently contain measurable glyphosate residues, unlike conventional or organic soy. This means GE crops are increasing pesticide exposure in the human diet—contradicting claims of equivalence and safety.

Allergins
In the early 1990s, researchers at the University of Nebraska inserted a gene from the Brazil nut into soybeans to enhance their methionine content, an essential amino acid. However, the modified soybeans expressed a protein that was a known allergen in Brazil nuts. When tested, individuals with Brazil nut allergies experienced allergic reactions upon exposure to the GM soybeans. This led to the termination of the project, demonstrating the potential for unintended allergenicity in GM foods.

Environmental pathways to health risks

Studies have shown that Bt toxins from GE corn can wash into waterways, affecting sensitive aquatic insects. This highlights how GE traits can move beyond fields into ecosystems that also support human health.

Why This Matters for New Zealand

NZ already has some of the world’s highest cancer rates, and our unique biodiversity is especially vulnerable to chemical-intensive agriculture. The Gene Technology Bill would deregulate GE crops in ways that increase pesticide use, reduce ecological resilience, and expose New Zealand to the same failures already documented overseas.

Rather than fast-tracking risky genetic technologies tied to chemical dependency, NZ should be investing in ecological, organic, and regenerative farming systems that protect both people and the environment. (Read more about the financial risks of the Gene Technology bill here).

The evidence is clear: GE crops designed for pesticide use are unsafe, unnecessary, and incompatible with a healthy food future for New Zealand.

References

Séralini, G-E. et al. (2012). Long term toxicity of a Roundup herbicide and a Roundup-tolerant genetically modified maize. https://enveurope.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s12302-014-0014-5

Summary: The 2012 study by Séralini et al., which reported long-term toxicity of GM maize NK603 and Roundup herbicide in rats, was retracted in 2013 by Food and Chemical Toxicology. The official reason cited was that the study's data were inconclusive and its conclusions unreliable. However, the retraction was not due to evidence of fraud or misconduct.

Many critics confirm that the retraction was influenced by political and industry pressures rather than by genuine scientific concerns. The study had already undergone peer review before publication, and the methodology, followed recognised toxicology procedures. The retraction appeared to be prompted by the controversial nature of the findings and by concerns about public reaction and commercial interests, rather than by objective scientific flaws. It was republished: 24 June 2014

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Mesnage, R. et al. (2017). Transcriptome profile analysis reflects rat liver and kidney damage following chronic ultra-low dose Roundup exposure https://ehjournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12940-015-0056-

The long term and found significant liver and kidney gene expression changes, consistent with structural and functional organ damage (Mesnage et al., 2015). These results are reinforced by Panzacchi et al. (2025), which reported increased tumor incidences and carcinogenic effects in rats following long-term glyphosate-based herbicide exposure from prenatal life (Panzacchi et al., 2025).

Together, these studies demonstrate the potential health risks of chronic exposure to glyphosate-based herbicides. This is relevant to the proposed Gene Technology Bill, as deregulation of gene-edited crops would likely increase the use of such herbicides on herbicide-tolerant crops, potentially amplifying these documented risks to human and environmental health.

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Monarch butterfly and milkweed decline
Pleasants, J. M., & Oberhauser, K. S. (2013). Milkweed loss in agricultural fields because of herbicide use and its impact on monarch butterflies. Insect Conservation and Diversity, 6(2), 135–144.
https://resjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1752-4598.2012.00196.x

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The StarLink corn report (Krimsky, 2010) highlights regulatory failures and contamination risks, including reports of allergic reactions in humans, associated with an unapproved genetically engineered corn variety, without promoting genetically engineered crops or pesticide use. chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://media.rff.org/documents/RFF-RPT-StarLink.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com

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Brazil Nut Protein in GM Soybeans
https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJM199603143341103

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Rosi-Marshall, E. J., Tank, J. L., Royer, T. V., Whiles, M. R., Evans-White, M., Chambers, C., ... & Stephen, M. L. (2007). Toxins in transgenic crop byproducts may affect headwater stream ecosystems. PNAS, 104(41), 16204–16208. https://www.pnas.org/doi/full/10.1073/pnas.0707177104

Summary: This study found that Bt corn byproducts (pollen, leaves, and stalks) entering headwater streams reduced growth and increased mortality of nontarget aquatic insects, such as caddisflies, potentially disrupting stream food webs. Bt corn (corn genetically engineered to produce an insecticidal protein from the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis, or “Bt”) demonstrates that transgenic crops can have unintended ecological effects beyond terrestrial environments, underscoring the importance of assessing GE crops’ broader environmental impacts.

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Glyphosate residues in soy / human exposure Mesnage, R., Clair, E., Gress, S., et al. (2015). Cytotoxicity and gene expression alterations in human cells exposed to glyphosate and Roundup formulations. Environmental Health, 14: 43.

Glyphosate and Gene Editing: What the Public Needs to Know

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 00:27:15 GMT

Two proposed bills in New Zealand:

The Gene Technology Bill
and the Glyphosate Maximum Residue Level (MRL) Increase Bill

Would pose serious risks to public health, food safety, and the environment.

Gene Technology Bill

The Gene Technology Bill would deregulate oversight of gene-edited crops engineered for pesticide resistance. Independent studies show that such crops would lead to increased pesticide use, soil degradation, biodiversity loss, higher chemical residues in food, hormone disruption, cancer, and other chronic diseases.

Many countries, including EU member states, Japan, Australia, and Bhutan, already restrict or ban the cultivation of GMOs, reflecting global caution toward genetically modified crops.

These restrictions include strict labelling policies for GMO imports, such as in Japan, which does not export any GMO food.)

Glyphosate MRL Increase Bill

The proposed Glyphosate MRL Increase Bill would allow up to 100 times more glyphosate residues in certain crops. Research indicates that glyphosate would accumulate in human tissues, disrupt gut health and hormones, impair cognition and behaviour in adolescents, and increase the risk of cancers such as non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

Around 20 countries, including Mexico, Vietnam, and EU nations, have banned or are phasing out glyphosate due to these documented risks.

Public Concern and Economic Impact

Surveys show that 75–89% of New Zealanders want to avoid GMOs and sectors linked to environmental degradation.

These bills would threaten sustainable agriculture, organic markets, responsible investment, and eco-tourism—sectors that rely on New Zealand’s clean environment, biodiversity, and chemical-free food reputation.

Responsible Policy Alternatives

New Zealand can support farmers while protecting public health and the environment. Investment in organic and regenerative farming, transparent food labelling, and stricter monitoring of chemical use would protect health, maintain biodiversity, and preserve New Zealand’s “clean, green” food reputation. It is a growing billion dollar industry.

(References here).

Glyphosate and GMOs: Economic and Public Health Risks for NZ

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 19:57:22 GMT

Many years ago, a slightly curious (and perhaps somewhat baffled) colleague asked why I had, for the first time in several years, managed to meet our substantial monthly targets within just two months, when previous managers had not. Despite the challenging economy at the time, I then went on to achieve the full annual multi-million-dollar target. As I had also consistently done for other businesses.

I had a few methods, and one was to always do the right thing first, including prioritising our customers and staff.

It never pays to take shortcuts, panic, or be greedy if you want to meet financial targets.

Recently, I went on an economic 'expedition' to see what I could find about New Zealand's sustainable markets.

It may surprise some of our nation that it does not pay to lose our clean green image and that an unhealthy nation is a costly one in several ways.

Changing our GE-free status is not great for our economy. (Let's ditch the Gene Technology bill for health reasons alone - but if you mainly care about the financial implications, then read on).

Likewise, increasing glyphosate (also known as Roundup) levels in food is not beneficial for the economy (and disastrous for our health).

Economic and Sectoral Risks

There are economic risks: The Sustainable Business Council's members collectively represent NZ$169 billion in annual turnover, reflecting the significant economic scale of businesses committed to sustainability in NZ.

These Bills Could Threaten Key Sectors:

• Sustainable construction: NZ$5 billion/year, projected NZ$142 billion by 2050, dependent on healthy biodiversity and uncontaminated natural resources.

• Responsible investment: NZ$153.5 billion in ESG-aligned funds, with NZ$4.74 billion in impact investments. Many exclude high chemical/GMO exposure; these changes could trigger divestment.

• Sustainable tourism: Tourism contributes around NZ$40 billion annually to New Zealand's economy. The sustainable and eco-tourism sectors are growing rapidly. The New Zealand sustainable tourism market is projected to grow from USD 12.7 million in 2025 to USD 57.7 million by 2035, representing a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 16.3%.

A 2024 survey shows that 75% of New Zealanders want to avoid investing in companies involved in genetic engineering (GMOs).

These sectors depend heavily on New Zealand's clean environment, biodiversity, and food integrity to attract discerning international visitors. Pristine landscapes and natural food systems, prized especially in markets sensitive to GMOs such as the EU and Japan, are key assets for sustaining this growth.

Glyphosate Proposal – Escalating Health Risks

The proposal to increase glyphosate residue limits—by up to 100 times in certain crops—is concerning, given growing evidence of its health risks. International research suggests glyphosate:

• Can accumulate in breast milk and body tissues

• Disrupts gut health, hormone balance, and DNA integrity

• Could impair cognition and behaviour in adolescents

• Increases the risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma

View health statistics here.

Two Harmful Food Bills NZ Must Reject

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 08:41:20 GMT

Chronic Diseases Linked to Pesticides and Glyphosate

Pesticides are widely used in modern agriculture and landscaping, yet their impacts on human health are becoming increasingly difficult to ignore. Independent studies have associated pesticide exposure with a range of adverse health effects, including certain cancers, neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease, neurotoxicity, reproductive harm, and endocrine disruption. Research has reported associations between pesticide exposure and cancers including leukemia, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and several solid tumours, while other studies have linked pesticide exposure to increased risks of neurological disease.

References:

Cancer and pesticide exposure:

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2231435/

Parkinson’s disease and pesticide exposure:

https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2833716?utm_campaign=articlePDF&utm_medium=articlePDFlink&utm_source=articlePDF&utm_content=jamanetworkopen.2025.9198

Neurotoxicity and endocrine-disrupting effects:

https://www.pan-europe.info/campaigns/save-our-brain

https://www.pan-europe.info/eu-legislation/hormone-disrupting-pesticides-edcs

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Parkinson’s Disease and Pesticides

A recent study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association examined the relationship between pesticide exposure and Parkinson’s disease (PD). Researchers found that:

“Living within 1 mile of a golf course was associated with 126% increased odds of developing PD compared with individuals living more than 6 miles away from a golf course.”

Meaning: These findings suggest that pesticides applied to golf courses may play a role in the incidence of Parkinson’s disease for nearby residents.

Reference:

https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2833716?utm_campaign=articlePDF&utm_medium=articlePDFlink&utm_source=articlePDF&utm_content=jamanetworkopen.2025.9198

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Glyphosate and Chronic Health Effects

Glyphosate, the world’s most widely used herbicide, has been linked in independent studies to multiple chronic health risks, including cancer, neurological damage, reproductive harm, and endocrine disruption. Research shows glyphosate can accumulate in the brain, triggering neuroinflammation, Alzheimer’s-like pathology, anxiety-like behavior, and genetic disruptions in neurons.

Pesticide exposure may act as an endocrine disruptor, interfering with hormone systems and contributing to developmental issues. Some studies have also linked exposure to autism-like behaviors in animal models, highlighting potential long-term risks to children's neurological health.

Chronic exposure to glyphosate and other pesticides is associated with an increased risk of cancers, including leukemia, bladder, breast, prostate, colon, and brain cancers.

References: Independent studies have reported associations between glyphosate exposure and neurological, developmental, reproductive, and other chronic health effects.

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5972398/

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S001393512301664X

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32398374/

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Other Chronic Health Effects Linked to Pesticides

Independent studies also highlight associations between pesticides (including glyphosate) and a wide range of chronic diseases:

Neurological disorders: Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, neurotoxicity
Reproductive harm: infertility, birth defects
Cancers: leukemia, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, bladder, prostate, breast, colon, and brain cancers
Metabolic effects: diabetes, endocrine disruption

See studies and reviews cited above.

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Why This Matters

It affects our communities, food, and future generations. Communities near orchards, farms, and even golf courses are exposed through air, soil, and water. Chronic diseases linked to pesticides don’t appear overnight; they emerge after years of low-level exposure. So why increase glyphosate levels - it would be cruel.

If New Zealand raises glyphosate limits and weakens genetic safety laws, these risks — including cancer, neurological, and hormonal impacts — will increase, not decrease.

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Call to Action

Support independent research into pesticide health impacts.
Oppose laws that increase glyphosate exposure and weaken genetic safeguards.
Choose food produced with no pesticides.

Spread awareness: pesticides are not just an environmental issue — they are a public health issue.

References

https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2833716?utm_campaign=articlePDF&utm_medium=articlePDFlink&utm_source=articlePDF&utm_content=jamanetworkopen.2025.9198

https://www.change.org/noharmtofood

— Dr. Daniele Mandrioli, Principal Investigator, Global Glyphosate Study

Sign & Share the Petition: change.org/noharmtofood

New Zealand Context: Why Two Food Bills Matter

Right now, New Zealand faces two new proposed laws that would directly affect pesticide use and food safety:

Raising glyphosate residue limits in food by up to 100 times – exposing families to far higher levels of chemicals linked to cancer and other chronic diseases.

Deregulating gene editing – allowing crops engineered for higher chemical tolerance, which could increase pesticide usage.

These changes would push New Zealand toward a more chemical-intensive food system, with serious risks to soil health, biodiversity, and public health.

Research also shows that pesticide exposure acts as an endocrine disruptor, interfering with hormone systems and contributing to developmental issues.

Studies have further linked glyphosate and other pesticides to autism-like behaviors in animal models, raising concerns about long-term impacts on children’s neurological health and development.

Pesticides can be ingested, inhaled, or absorbed via the skin.

Exposure to glyphosate increases the risk of a cancer called non-Hodgkin lymphoma by 41 percent

“Glyphosate-based herbicides have been shown to disrupt endocrine function at levels well below regulatory safety limits. Such disruption may contribute to developmental, reproductive, and metabolic disorders.”

— Dr. Michael Antoniou, King’s College London, co-author of independent glyphosate toxicity reviews