A new study has detected high concentrations of a toxic “forever chemical” in cereal-based foods across Europe, with breakfast cereals showing the highest contamination. Research by Pesticide Action Network Europe (PAN) found that levels of trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) — a byproduct of pesticides containing PFAS chemicals — were on average 100 times higher in cereal products than in tap water.
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) have been widely used since the 1950s and are known for their persistence in the environment, often remaining for centuries. TFA, one of their breakdown products, is water-soluble and easily absorbed by crops, making its way into foods such as pasta, bread, flour and sweets. Health concerns linked to TFA include reproductive harm, as well as potential impacts on the thyroid, liver and immune system.
The study examined 65 cereal products across 16 European countries and detected TFA in 81.5% of them. Wheat-based foods were among the most contaminated, with the highest levels recorded in an Irish breakfast cereal, followed by Belgian and German wholemeal bread, and French baguette. Researchers also found traces in foods ranging from spaghetti to gingerbread.
Campaigners say the findings highlight an urgent need to ban PFAS pesticides and set stricter safety limits for TFA, noting that most governments currently do not monitor the chemical in food. Although the UK was not included in the study, the results are relevant, as 27 PFAS chemicals are known to be used in UK pesticides — six considered highly hazardous.
PAN Europe warned that exposure is widespread through both food and water, calling for immediate action to prevent further contamination of the food supply.
