Herbicide Exposure Is Altering Infants' Gut and Brain Development
NonToxCo Research
Science & Safety Team · 4/6/2026
Infants exposed to herbicides early in life have altered gut bacteria and neurobehavioral developmental differences. The weed killers are getting into babies and changing how their guts and brains develop.
What the Study Found
A 2026 study on hospitalized infants in China found that early-life herbicide exposure was associated with changes in gut microbiome composition and neurobehavioral development. The herbicides disrupted the gut-brain connection during the most critical window of development.
Infants' gut microbiomes are still forming. Herbicide exposure during this window can permanently alter which bacteria colonize the gut, affecting immune function, nutrient absorption, and brain signaling for years to come.
What You Can Do
Use organic produce for baby food. Don't use herbicides or pesticides on your lawn or garden. Wash produce thoroughly. Filter your water, especially if you live in agricultural areas.
Browse our non-toxic baby products for safer options for infants.
Also see glass food storage for safer alternatives.