Chemical that affects fertility found in 80% of Americans who eat oat-based foods

A recent study conducted by a US-based advocacy group revealed concerning findings about Americans’ exposure to a little-known chemical found in oat-based foods, News18 mentionted.

Published in the Journal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology, the study highlighted that 80% of Americans tested positive for chlormequat, a harmful pesticide allowed to be used on oats and other grains imported into the US, according to the Environmental Working Group (EWG). .

The study, which included popular brands such as Quaker Oats and Cheerios, found chlormequat in 92 percent of oat-based foods purchased in May 2023. General Mills and PepsiCo, the makers of those products, did not immediately respond to requests for comment. questions about these disturbing findings.

Urine tests conducted by EWG between 2017 and 2023 showed an increase in consumer exposure to chlormequat, with higher levels and more frequent detections in 2023 samples.

Despite ongoing research into its effects, animal studies have shown potential harm to reproductive systems and fetal development, raising concerns about effects in humans.

The US Environmental Protection Agency’s decision to allow chlormequat to be used on several crops, including barley and oats, has been criticized as “dangerous” by the EWG.

In response, EWG is calling for federal government action, urging possible orders from the Food and Drug Administration to test US food for chlormequat.

Until regulatory measures are enacted, EWG advises consumers to choose organic oat products grown without harmful pesticides such as chlormequat and glyphosate.