What foods could be most negatively by the Enlist Duo herbicide to kill weeds? What foods should be avoided due to possible chemical leaching?

Hi Nina and thanks for bringing your question to EmpowHER.

On October, 15, 2014 the Environmental Protection Agency gave approval to a new herbicide developed by Dow AgroSciences that has faced broad opposition, ordering a series of restrictions to address potential environmental and health hazards.

The herbicide, Enlist Duo, was developed for use with new genetically modified crops developed by Dow AgroSciences, a unit of Dow Chemical.

The EPA’s decision means Dow can sell Enlist Duo in conjunction with its new genetically engineered products, 2,4-D-tolerant corn and soybean seeds. The Department of Agriculture recently approved Dow’s application to market these seeds.

Dow has announced plans to start marketing Enlist Duo in Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, South Dakota and Wisconsin.

Critics, including doctors and scientists, advised the EPA to not approve the product, citing links between pesticide exposure and human health problems, including suppressed immune systems. The Environmental Working Group, in a statement, said their research shows that  more than 480 elementary schools nationwide are within 200 feet of corn and soybean fields that could be sprayed with this herbicide.

Watch for more information as more consumer groups react to the FDA approval, as well as potential legal efforts to stop this action on the basis of health concerns.

Best regards,

Pat