Most oats are grown on family farms in Canada, many of which are multi-generational operations with strong ties to the land where farmers live and thrive. To grow a crop of oats takes great care, and Canada’s top quality oats are highly prized for their colour, weight, and health benefits.
There have been recent concerns over the use of glyphosate and potential residues in cereals. Here is some information on the use of glyphosate in Canadian oats.
CANADIAN OAT GROWERS AIM TO PRODUCE THE BEST QUALITY OATS, AND IT ALL STARTS IN THE FIELD
Oat farmers work to grow a quality crop that is sustainable and safe. Glyphosate is one product commonly used by farmers to effectively control grass weeds prior to planting or after a crop is harvested. It also reduces disease and natural contaminants.
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Using this product also makes it possible to use reduce ploughing, which protects soil and water. Soil quality and good water use is important around the world.
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The Keep it Clean campaign reminds farmers to only use crop protection products (pesticides) that have been registered for use in Canada and to always follow the rates and timing listed on the label.
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Canadian farmers continue to look for ways to reduce chemical use on their farms, as it is an added cost to them and therefore it is only used when necessary.
CANADIAN OAT GROWERS TAKE CONSUMER HEALTH SERIOUSLY
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Any levels of glyphosate that may remain after processing are trace amounts and significantly below any limits which have been set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and international bodies as safe for human consumption.
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Glyphosate is much safer than many things found in most kitchen cupboards. For example, research demonstrates that the potential toxicity of common products like vinegar, baking soda, and coffee are higher than that of glyphosate.
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As research has shown, there are trace amounts of glyphosate found in many products. While not zero, it is important to note that one in a billion is the equivalent of 1 second in 32 years, or an incredibly small amount of the product.
CONSUMERS CAN CHOOSE TO BUY ORGANIC OATS
If you are still concerned, you can purchase organic oats to help you lower your exposure to even lower trace amounts of crop protection products.
From start to finish, oats are treated with the same home-grown care one would use while preparing a great meal for their family.
