Pesticides in Drinking Water – Are Private Analyses Worth It in Switzerland?

In 2020, Switzerland held two referendums addressing the restriction of synthetic pesticides. These are also available on the official website of the Swiss Confederation. However, both initiatives were rejected with the reasoning that they went too far. But how significant is the threat posed by pesticides in drinking water?

Which Pesticides Have Been Found in Swiss Drinking Water?

While the sale of glyphosate was banned in Austria as early as 2019, it continues to be used in Switzerland. Glyphosate inhibits a plant enzyme to suppress plant growth. Since humans do not possess this enzyme, it was initially considered harmless—however, several studies suggest that it could be carcinogenic to humans and animals.

A counter-study disseminated by Monsanto was later exposed as manipulated and withdrawn, yet misinformation persists. Other pesticides found in drinking water include chloridazon (herbicide), chlorothalonil (fungicide), and atrazine, whose levels have been declining since its ban in 2007. All these substances are based on synthetic chemistry and are considered health concerns when exceeding limit values.

Do the Federal Food Safety Limits Protect Us?

The legal limit for pesticide active substances and their metabolites is 0.1 micrograms per liter of drinking water. But even when exceeded—as in Kappelen (BE), where the value was 22 times over the limit—concrete consequences are often lacking. New pipelines and long-term abstention are supposed to solve the problem.

Another issue is the long persistence of old substances. Plant protection products containing lead used in the 1980s can still be detected in drinking water today. Although the lead limit has been reduced to 0.05 micrograms, binding implementation will only occur in 15 years.

How Do Pesticides and Fertilizers Enter Drinking Water?

Even with proper application, residues enter groundwater through soil and water bodies—and eventually into our households. Many affected individuals do not notice this, as pesticides are often odorless and tasteless. Only an individual water analysis can provide certainty here.

Are There Alternatives to Using Pesticides?

In the past, weeds were mechanically removed by plowing. Today, fewer farmers manage larger areas—making chemical agents more attractive. Additionally, farmers who use synthetic agents are sometimes financially supported.

Are Private Tests and Controls Worth It?

Regular water analyses form the basis for high water quality. However, adjustments to legal limits and controls often occur too slowly. As long as questionable studies—such as those by the controversial scientist Michael Schmitz (formerly University of Giessen, Monsanto-funded)—serve as the basis, skepticism is warranted.

Independent studies and private water analyses build trust, transparency, and security regarding the actual quality of one's drinking water.

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