U.S. Right to Know (USRTK) is a nonprofit investigative public health research group dedicated to exposing corporate and government actions that threaten public health, the environment, and the food system. Since its inception in 2015, USRTK has obtained and reported on thousands of industry and government documents, many acquired through judicial enforcement of open records laws.
Key Areas of Investigation:
Pesticides: USRTK investigates the health risks associated with pesticides, including glyphosate, the active ingredient in Roundup herbicides. Their research has highlighted concerns about glyphosate’s links to cancer and endocrine disruption.
Ultra-Processed Foods: The organization examines the impact of ultra-processed foods on health, uncovering evidence that these products contribute to increased rates of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, and other health issues.
Corporate Influence: USRTK exposes how corporations, such as Coca-Cola and Monsanto, influence public health policies and scientific research to protect their interests. For instance, they have revealed Coca-Cola’s efforts to shape public health conferences and groups.
Notable Investigations:
Monsanto Papers: USRTK released internal Monsanto documents, known as the “Monsanto Papers,” which shed light on the company’s strategies to influence scientific research and public opinion regarding the safety of its products.
Paraquat Litigation: The organization has reported on lawsuits alleging that the herbicide paraquat causes Parkinson’s disease, providing updates on legal proceedings and settlements.
Resources and Publications:
USRTK offers a wealth of resources, including fact sheets on chemicals of concern, academic papers, and news releases. Their work is accessible to journalists, researchers, policymakers, and the public, promoting transparency and informed decision-making.
By holding corporations and government agencies accountable, U.S. Right to Know strives to protect public health and ensure a safer food system.
U.S. Right To Know – Pursuing truth and transparency for public health