Health Canada announces changes to Glyphosate labeling

Glyphosate is registered for use in a wide variety of settings, including agriculture, forestry, and home gardens and patios.

OTTAWA -- Health Canada is committed to protecting human health and the environment, and regularly reviews approved pesticides to ensure they remain safe to use.

Also read, Glyphosate residue found in nearly 30% of food tested by CFIA.

Health Canada has published the final re-evaluation decision on glyphosate. Following a rigorous science-based assessment, Health Canada has determined that when used according to the label, products containing glyphosate are not a concern to human health and the environment.

Glyphosate is a common herbicide used to control weeds. It is registered for use in a wide variety of settings, including agriculture, forestry, and home gardens and patios. Glyphosate is used both commercially and by homeowners.

Based on this re-evaluation, Health Canada will continue the registration of products that contain glyphosate, but will require updates to the product labels to help provide additional protection to humans and the environment.

By April 2019, manufacturers will be required to ensure that all commercial labels on pesticides containing glyphosate include the following:

• A statement indicating that re-entry into the sprayed areas should be restricted to 12 hours after application in agricultural areas where glyphosate products were used.
• A statement indicating that the product is to be applied only when the potential to spread to areas of human activity, such as houses, cottages, schools and recreational areas, is minimal.
• Instructions for spray buffer zones to protect non-targeted areas and aquatic habitats from unintended exposure.
• Precautionary statements to reduce the potential for runoff of glyphosate into aquatic areas.
  

For individuals using any pesticides around the home, Health Canada advises Canadians to:

• Use only pesticides that have been approved in Canada, which can be identified by the Pest Control Product or PCP registration number on the main portion of the label.
• Be familiar with the proper handling and application procedures.
• Always read the label carefully to make sure you are choosing the right product for the right situation, and follow all safety precautions on the label carefully.

Health Canada will continue to monitor research on potential impacts of glyphosate products to ensure the safety and security of Canadians and the environment. The Department is committed to working closely with its international counterparts on evidence-based approaches to pesticide regulations.

If you have any questions about the pesticide you are using, the Pesticide Label Search App can help you find the latest detailed instructions, first aid statements and warnings on the label.

SOURCE Health Canada