Review of Glyphosate-Based Herbicide and Aminomethylphosphonic Acid (AMPA): Environmental and Health Impacts

Abstract

The use of synthetic molecules to achieve specific goals is steadily increasing in the environment, and these molecules adversely impact human health and ecosystem services. Considering the adverse effects, a better understanding of how these molecules behave in the environment and their associated risks is necessary to keep their use acceptably limited. To meet the demands of farmers and combat weed problems, woodlands and farmlands are sprayed with agrochemicals, primarily glyphosate-based herbicides. Farmers increasingly embrace these herbicides containing glyphosate. Glyphosate and aminomethylphosphonic acid (AMPA), a key metabolite of glyphosate, have been reported as toxicological concerns when they become more prevalent in the food chain. The chemical glyphosate has been linked to various health issues in humans and other living organisms, including endocrine disruption, reproductive issues, tumours, non-Hodgkin lymphomas, and liver, heart, and blood problems. Therefore, the current review aims to compile data on glyphosate-based herbicide use in the environment, potential risks to human and ecological health, and various maximum residual limits for crops as suggested by international organizations. As a result, regulatory agencies can advise glyphosate users on safe usage practices and synthesize herbicides more efficiently.