A little-heard-of pesticide linked to infertility in animals is showing up in the overwhelming majority of oat-based foods sold in the United States, including popular cereal brands Quaker Oats and Cheerios.
The chemical, chlormequat, was detected in 77 of 96 urine samples taken from 2017 and 2023, with levels increasing in the most recent years, a new study by the Environmental Working Group finds.
Further, chlormequat was found in 92% of oat-based foods sold in May 2023, including Quaker Oats and Cheerios, according to the research published Thursday in the Journal of Exposure Science and Environmental Epidemiology.
Some studies have shown chlormequat can damage the reproductive system and disrupt fetal growth in animals, a cause for concern as to “whether it could also harm humans,” EWG stated.
Environmental Protection Agency regulations allow chlormequat to be used on ornamental plants only, not food crops, grown the U.S. The chemical is used as a growth regulator for commercial production of cereal grains, making it easier to harvest the crops, according to the National Library of Medicine.
However, its use on imported oats and other foods sold across the country has been allowed since 2018, and the EPA is now proposing to let chlormequat be used on barley, oat, triticale and wheat grown in the U.S — a plan the EWG opposes.
Organic fare is a safer bet, with just one of seven organic samples found to contain low levels of chlormequat, EWG said.
“Until the government fully protects consumers, you can reduce your exposure to chlormequat by choosing products made with organic oats, which are grown without synthetic pesticides such as chlormequat,” according to the nonprofit advocacy group.
“All our products adhere to all regulatory requirements,” a spokesperson for General Mills told CBS MoneyWatch in a statement. “Food safety is always our top priority at General Mills, and we take care to ensure our food is prepared and packaged in the safest way possible.”
Quaker Oats, a division of PepsiCo, did not respond to a request for comment.
Source link
Reach Out
Don’t hesitate to reach out to us to discuss your specific needs. Our team is ready and eager to provide you with tailored solutions that align with your firm’s goals and enhance your digital marketing efforts. We look forward to helping you grow your law practice online.
Our Services:
Blog Post Writing
We do well-researched, timely, and engaging blog posts that resonate with your clientele, positioning you as a thought leader in your domain.
Content Writing
Beyond articles and content for blogs, we delve into comprehensive content pieces like eBooks, and case studies, tailored to showcase your expertise.
Website Content Writing: First impressions matter. Our content ensures your website reflects the professionalism, dedication, and expertise you bring to the table.
Social Media Management
In today’s interconnected world, your online presence extends to social platforms. We help you navigate this terrain, ensuring your voice is consistently represented and heard.
WordPress Website Maintenance
Your digital office should be as polished and functional as your physical one. We ensure your WordPress site remains updated, secure, and user-friendly.
For more information, ad placements in our attorney blog network, article requests, social media management, or listings on our top 10 attorney sites, reach out to us at canyoncrestguide@gmail.com.
Warm regards,
