The Monsanto lawsuit primarily refers to a massive series of product liability and personal injury lawsuits related to Monsanto’s glyphosate-based weed killer, Roundup. Plaintiffs allege that prolonged exposure to Roundup causes non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) and other cancers, and that Monsanto (now owned by Bayer) failed to warn consumers adequately about these risks despite evidence dating back decades. The litigation is among the largest mass tort cases in recent U.S. history and remains active in 2025, with tens of thousands of claims pending and billions of dollars paid in settlements and verdicts.
Background and Origins of the Lawsuit
Roundup, introduced by Monsanto in the 1970s, became one of the world’s most widely used herbicides, especially in agriculture and gardening. Its active ingredient, glyphosate, was declared by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) in 2015 as “probably carcinogenic to humans,” sparking global concern. Plaintiffs argue that Monsanto knew of glyphosate’s cancer risks long before public acknowledgment yet marketed Roundup as safe and environmentally friendly.
Thousands of affected individuals who developed NHL after years of exposure have filed personal injury suits assembled into multidistrict litigation (MDL 2741) in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California. The lawsuits seek compensation for medical costs, lost income, pain and suffering, punitive damages, and corporate accountability.
Key Legal Claims and Allegations
- Failure to Warn: Plaintiffs contend Monsanto failed to provide clear, explicit warnings about the cancer risks of glyphosate on Roundup packaging and marketing materials.
- Negligence and Product Liability: Allegations that Monsanto negligently allowed a dangerous product to remain on the market, causing preventable harm.
- Fraud and Misrepresentation: Monsanto is accused of deliberately misleading regulators, consumers, and farmers to downplay health risks.
- Public Health Impact: The suit emphasizes the widespread use and exposure, claiming Monsanto prioritized profits over safety.
Settlement and Verdicts to Date
As of August 2025, Monsanto and Bayer have settled approximately 100,000 cases for roughly $11 billion. Several high-profile jury verdicts awarded substantial sums to plaintiffs:
- A $2 billion verdict in 2020 was reduced on appeal but set a high-water mark for damages.
- In May 2025, a Missouri appellate court affirmed a $611 million verdict against Monsanto for three plaintiffs who developed NHL.
- Multiple other verdicts exceeding $100 million were handed down or settled nationwide, signaling strong jury findings of liability.
However, despite these payouts, approximately 61,000 cases remain active in state and federal courts.
Ongoing Legal Developments
The U.S. Supreme Court is considering whether federal regulations under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) preempt state lawsuits alleging insufficient cancer warnings. Lower courts have issued conflicting rulings, making the Supreme Court’s decision pivotal for the future of Roundup litigation.
Bayer continues to challenge claims, arguing scientific consensus does not support glyphosate as a human carcinogen and emphasizing regulatory approvals worldwide. Meanwhile, plaintiff attorneys continue to pursue trials, settlements, and legislative efforts to strengthen consumer protections.
Broader Implications and Industry Impact
The Monsanto Roundup lawsuits have transformed product liability law in the agricultural chemicals industry and raised public awareness of pesticide safety. Regulatory bodies globally are reevaluating glyphosate use, safety thresholds, and labeling requirements. The cases have also fostered debate about corporate transparency and responsibility in chemical safety.
Agribusiness, farmers, and consumers continue to navigate the evolving regulatory landscape as alternative weed control methods and stricter guidelines emerge.
Frequently Asked Questions About Monsanto Roundup Lawsuit
What is Roundup?
Roundup is a widely used herbicide containing glyphosate, used to control weeds in agriculture, gardening, and landscaping.
What health risks are alleged?
Plaintiffs link Roundup exposure to non-Hodgkin lymphoma and other cancers.
Has Monsanto admitted fault?
No. Monsanto denies wrongdoing and points to regulatory approvals and scientific studies affirming glyphosate’s safety.
How much has been paid in settlements?
Approximately $11 billion has been paid to settle tens of thousands of claims through 2025.
What is the current status of pending cases?
Around 61,000 lawsuits are still active, with new claims continuing to be filed.
Conclusion
The Monsanto Roundup lawsuits represent a landmark legal effort to hold a global chemical producer accountable for alleged public health harms. As courts wrestle with complex scientific evidence, regulatory law, and corporate responsibility, the litigation shapes industry practices and consumer protections. The outcome will influence future safety standards for herbicides and other chemicals, while providing compensation to those affected by glyphosate exposure.
