Herbicides Used on Crops: Harmless or Toxic? | Science pills

🌶️ We live in a time when it is common to hear about harmful substances in the food we eat. Among these compounds, herbicides stand out, especially glyphosate. 🌾 🔍 History of herbicides: - Before the 20th century: mechanical methods and salts. - Post World War II: development of herbicides such as 2,4-D. 💡 Types of herbicides: - Contact: they kill where they touch. - Systemic: absorbed and distributed by the plant. ⚠️ Controversial herbicides: - Agent Orange: used in the Vietnam War, banned due to its toxicity. - Paraquat: extremely toxic, banned in more than 50 countries. - Atrazine: toxic to amphibians, withdrawn in the EU. 🌟 The glyphosate boom: - Discovered in 1950, launched in 1974 as Roundup. - It works by inhibiting the enzyme EPSP synthase. - Massive use since 1996. #Herbicides #Glyphosate #Agriculture #Health #Environment #History #Science #Sustainability #climatechange #sustainability #OpenMind #crops #agriculture #sustainableconsumption