Can pesticides or herbicides cause cancer?

Pesticides are chemicals that help plants grow by controlling pests like weeds (herbicides) and insects (insecticides). Most people only come into contact with very small amounts on some food items or when gardening.

Do pesticides on food cause cancer?

No. There can be small amounts of pesticides or herbicides on the surface of what we eat. But levels are low and do not increase the risk of cancer in people.

The Food Standards Agency monitors food safety in the UK. They make sure that the levels of pesticides in food in the UK are not harmful for human health.

The NHS also recommended washing fruit and vegetables before you eat them to remove any possible bacteria leftover from the soil. This will ensure they are clean and safe to eat.

Can weed killers (such as glyphosate) cause cancer?

Glyphosate is a herbicide (weed killer). It’s often used in farming as well as home gardening.

Using glyphosate at low levels does not increase the risk of cancer. This includes using it as a weed killer in the garden.

Are agricultural workers and farmers at higher risk?

We need more research to know if people exposed to the highest levels of pesticides, such as agricultural workers and farmers, have an increased risk of cancer. You can find out more about this on our web page on workplace cancer risks.

Low levels of pesticides and herbicides in food or used when gardening don’t cause cancer. There are proven causes of cancer and things you can do to reduce your risk:

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This page is currently being reviewed. An update will be published as soon as possible.