Chemicals in Food

The recent discovery of fluorinated chemicals, or PFAS, in food packaging should serve as a reminder that our diets are as big a source as drinking water of these toxic compounds in our bodies.

Glyphosate, the most heavily used pesticide in the U.S., should be added to the list of toxic chemicals the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention regularly measures in the bodies of the American people, Environmental Working Group said in a letter sent today to the CDC.

A recent investigation by the Food and Drug Administration found per- and poly- fluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS,  in food, including meat, seafood and dairy products; sweet potatoes; pineapples; leafy greens, and chocolate cake with icing.

A new analysis of Monsanto’s signature herbicide, glyphosate, released by the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, gives weight to studies connecting glyphosate and non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and recommends monitoring children’s exposure to this toxic weedkiller.

10 food manufacturers and retailers have joined EWG’s petition to sharply limit glyphosate residues allowed on oats and prohibit the pesticide’s use as a pre-harvest drying agent.

Rep. Rosa DeLauro (D-Conn.) introduced legislation today to dramatically limit American children’s exposure to glyphosate, the active ingredient in Monsanto’s Roundup weedkiller, in food.

Americans are increasingly seeking “clean” foods that are free from artificial colors, flavors and preservatives. But although consumers who want to avoid toxic pesticides and antibiotics know to look for foods that are certified organic, many don’t know that federal rules also dramatically limit the use of synthetic substances in packaged organic foods like cereals, snacks and dressings.

On a recent afternoon, across the street from the White House, EWG set up an impromptu taste test and asked participants to choose between two oat-based cereals: one that likely contained a pinch of Monsanto’s weedkiller linked to cancer, glyphosate, and another that did not.

As we head into the holiday season, the marathon task of preparing a Thanksgiving dinner or even just one dish to contribute as a guest – may be stressful. To help you combat the inevitable stress surrounding this meal, EWG has put together this guide suggesting what to make yourself and what to buy, and when to go organic.