A new study reveals that diquat, a weedkiller ingredient widely used in the U.S. as a substitute for glyphosate, can cause serious health problems. It damages organs like the kidneys, liver, and lungs, harms beneficial gut bacteria, and may increase gut permeability, leading to inflammation. It might also be linked to neurological issues like Parkinson’s disease and could be carcinogenic.
Despite these risks, diquat remains legal in the U.S., while it has been banned in the UK, EU, China, and other countries. Critics say the U.S. regulatory system is weak and influenced by industry interests, allowing potentially harmful chemicals to stay on the market. Meanwhile, the UK continues to produce diquat for export, raising ethical concerns.
In short, diquat may pose greater health dangers than the herbicide it replaced, but regulatory action has yet to catch up.
Reference:
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2025/jul/06/weedkiller-diquat-organ-damage-study