Toxic “Forever Chemical” Found in European Cereals

A study by Pesticide Action Network Europe (PAN) has revealed high levels of trifluoroacetic acid (TFA)—a toxic “forever chemical”—in cereal and wheat-based products across 16 European countries. TFA forms when PFAS-containing pesticides break down in soil and can persist for centuries, accumulating in the food chain.

The study analyzed 65 conventional cereal products, detecting TFA in 81.5% of samples, with wheat-based products most contaminated. Breakfast cereals had the highest concentrations, up to 100 times higher than tap water, followed by bread, pasta, croissants, and sweets. Irish cereals, Belgian wholemeal bread, and German bread showed the highest levels.

TFA is reprotoxic and can affect fertility, fetal development, thyroid, liver, and immune function. PAN Europe calls for an immediate ban on PFAS pesticides and stricter food safety limits, emphasizing that children are particularly at risk. The study highlights urgent action is needed to prevent further food chain contamination.

08-12-2025