A new study has found alarming levels of trifluoroacetic acid (TFA), a toxic “forever chemical”, in common cereal foods sold across Europe. The research, conducted by Pesticide Action Network (PAN) Europe, shows breakfast cereals contain average TFA concentrations 100 times higher than tap water, making them the most contaminated product tested.
TFA forms when pesticides containing PFAS compounds break down in soil. PFAS – industrial chemicals used since the 1950s – degrade extremely slowly and can persist in the environment for centuries, often leaking into soil and water. Growing evidence links PFAS exposure to cancer, reproductive harm, thyroid issues and immune dysfunction. TFA specifically is considered reprotoxic, posing risks to fertility and foetal development.
The study analysed 65 cereal-based foods from 16 European countries and detected TFA in 81.5% of samples. Wheat-based products showed the highest contamination. Irish breakfast cereal ranked most polluted, followed by wholemeal bread in Belgium and Germany, then French baguette. TFA was also found in pasta, flour, croissants, scones, gingerbread and sweets.
Campaigners warn that governments currently do not monitor TFA in food, despite widespread exposure through diet and water. PAN Europe is calling for a ban on PFAS pesticides and tighter safety limits to protect public health, particularly children.
Although the UK was not included in the survey, the findings carry significant implications. The UK still uses 27 pesticide formulations containing PFAS, six of which are identified as highly hazardous. Advocates argue that without regulatory change, contamination of food chains is likely to continue.
PAN representatives say urgent policy action is needed to prevent long-term environmental and health impacts.
