A recent study published in Environmental Health Perspectives has uncovered an increase in the presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as “forever chemicals,” in U.S. pesticide products. These chemicals, which are notorious for their persistence in the environment, have been detected in rivers and streams across the country, raising alarms about potential risks to public health.
The study, titled “Forever Pesticides: A Growing Source of PFAS Contamination in the Environment”, provides a comprehensive review of how PFAS are being introduced into pesticide products. These chemicals are not only found in products used on essential crops like corn, wheat, and spinach but are also present in residential insecticides and pet flea treatments. The contamination sources include PFAS deliberately added as ingredients and those leached from fluorinated storage containers.
Researchers at the Center for Biological Diversity, or CBD, Environmental Working Group and Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility, or PEER, compiled data on sources of PFAS in pesticide products. Those sources range from specific ingredients intentionally added to pesticides, to contamination via leaching from fluorinated storage containers, EWG reports.
Some of the most toxic PFAS chemicals, such as PFOA and PFOS, have been discovered in pesticide products
Key findings from the study indicate that 14% of all active ingredients in U.S. pesticides are PFAS, with a significant proportion approved in the last decade. Some of the most toxic PFAS chemicals, such as PFOA and PFOS, have been discovered in pesticide products, likely due to container leaching. Furthermore, PFAS-contaminated pesticides have been found in waterways throughout the nation, raising concerns about the widespread environmental impact.
The study underscores the need for improved regulatory oversight to mitigate the risks posed by PFAS in pesticides. Recommendations include discontinuing the fluorination of plastic containers, requiring full disclosure of all ingredients on pesticide labels, and enhancing immunotoxicity testing for both active and inert ingredients in pesticides.
- Original article published by EWG: New study finds alarming rise in persistent ‘forever chemicals’ in pesticides
Subscribe to Bio Eco Actual Newsletter and be up to date with the latest news from the Organic Sector
Bio Eco Actual, International Organic Newspaper
Read Bio Eco Actual
