Story perspectives

Syngenta Halts Paraquat Production Amid Parkinson's Lawsuits

3/4/2026

Summary

Story summary

Syngenta will cease production of its paraquat weed killer by the end of June 2023, following numerous lawsuits linking the product to Parkinson’s disease.
The company cited competition from generic producers and minimal sales impact as reasons for this decision.
Experts, including Michael Okun, consider this a significant public health milestone, despite Syngenta's claims of safety.
Internal documents show Syngenta was aware of paraquat's potential risks for decades.
Lawmakers are advocating for bans, but concerns persist about other companies supplying paraquat in the U.S.

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Story summary

Syngenta will cease production of its paraquat weed killer by the end of June 2023, following numerous lawsuits linking the product to Parkinson’s disease.
The company cited competition from generic producers and minimal sales impact as reasons for this decision.
Experts, including Michael Okun, consider this a significant public health milestone, despite Syngenta's claims of safety.
Internal documents show Syngenta was aware of paraquat's potential risks for decades.
Lawmakers are advocating for bans, but concerns persist about other companies supplying paraquat in the U.S.