A new study has detected widespread contamination of cereal products across Europe with trifluoroacetic acid (TFA), a toxic “forever chemical” linked to reproductive harm and other health risks. Conducted by Pesticide Action Network Europe (PAN), the analysis found average TFA levels in breakfast cereals up to 100 times higher than those found in tap water.
TFA is formed when pesticides containing PFAS break down in soil. PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are long-lasting chemicals used in manufacturing and consumer goods since the 1950s. They can persist in the environment for centuries and have been associated with cancer, thyroid problems, liver damage and immune system effects.
PAN tested 65 cereal-based food products from 16 European countries, marking the first EU-wide study of its kind. TFA was detected in over 80% of samples, with wheat-based foods showing the highest concentrations. Irish breakfast cereal had the greatest levels detected, followed by Belgian and German wholemeal breads, and French baguettes. Contamination was found across a wide range of staples including pasta, flour, croissants, gingerbread and scones.
Campaigners are calling for stricter safety limits and a complete ban on PFAS pesticides, warning that current regulations do not monitor TFA in food. “All samples were above the default maximum residue limit,” said Angeliki Lysimachou of PAN Europe, urging swift action to protect consumers — particularly children, who are more vulnerable to reprotoxic chemicals.
Though the UK was not included in the study, the findings are relevant there, as PFAS remain common in British pesticide products. PAN Europe warns that without policy changes, contaminated soil and water could continue feeding TFA into the food chain for generations.
