Australia has enacted an immediate ban on the herbicide Dacthal, following concerns about its potential to cause irreversible health issues in unborn babies. The decision, effective immediately and without a phase-out period, prohibits the sale and use of the chemical nationwide.
Dacthal is commonly applied to various crops, including broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, turf, and cotton, to prevent weed growth during the early stages of development. However, the Australian pesticides authority has canceled approval for all 12 products containing this herbicide, requiring immediate removal from the market.
This action mirrors a similar emergency ruling made by U.S. regulators on August 6, aimed at safeguarding pregnant women and their children. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) highlighted that exposure to Dacthal, which can occur without the mother’s knowledge, may lead to alterations in fetal thyroid hormone levels. Such changes are associated with a range of severe outcomes, including low birth weight, impaired brain development, decreased IQ, and reduced motor skills, many of which could be permanent.
Farmers across Australia are now mandated to cease using Dacthal, reinforcing the urgent response to health risks associated with this herbicide.
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