It remains unclear how far the results exceeded the limit. The WHO’s cancer research agency has classified glyphosate as “probably carcinogenic”. This classification is based on animal studies, epidemiological evidence, and evidence of DNA damage.

The water supply for the affected parts of the municipality is currently being handled by the central Wiesfleck municipal waterworks. Image: gemeinde-wiesfleck.at

Eisenstadt – In several localities of the municipality of Wiesfleck – specifically Schreibersdorf, Schönherrn and Weinberg – glyphosate and other pesticides have been detected during drinking water analyses.

The cause of the contamination is currently unclear. Possible explanations include environmental influences in the area of the water source or improper handling of plant protection products, according to a statement by the municipality.

The water supply for the affected parts of the municipality is currently being provided via the central water supply system of Wiesfleck.

Within the European Union – including Austria – drinking water is regularly monitored for pesticide residues. For individual pesticides such as glyphosate, legally defined limit values apply and are regularly reviewed.

Glyphosate can enter surface water or groundwater in agricultural regions, particularly after rainfall or through runoff from fields. Under normal monitoring programs, however, such residues are generally only rarely detected at high concentrations.

It remains unclear to what extent the measured values exceeded the legal limit. Detailed results have not yet been published. Authorities and environmental laboratories are currently working on the precise evaluations.

Background

The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), the cancer research agency of the World Health Organization (WHO), has classified glyphosate as “probably carcinogenic” since 2015. This classification (Group 2A) is based on animal studies showing tumor formation, epidemiological evidence pointing to non-Hodgkin lymphoma, as well as evidence of DNA damage and oxidative stress.

By contrast, EU institutions – whose mandate holders maintain close contact with industry associations – classify glyphosate as non-carcinogenic. This is problematic in light of the fact that Bayer, the manufacturer of glyphosate, has demonstrably used substantial resources, networks, former politicians and interconnected industry associations to influence political decisions in favor of its interests. In the past, the company has financed or influenced studies that were politically used to reduce regulatory risks, sometimes without transparent disclosure of funding – for example at the University of Giessen.

By Okay Altinisik | 3-3-2026, 11:32:24