A new study has found high concentrations of trifluoroacetic acid (TFA), a toxic “forever chemical,” in cereal-based foods across Europe. The research, conducted by Pesticide Action Network Europe (PAN), revealed that breakfast cereals contained average TFA levels 100 times higher than those found in tap water, making them the most contaminated food category tested.
TFA forms when pesticides containing PFAS — a large group of persistent industrial chemicals used since the 1950s — break down in soil and water. PFAS are known for their extreme longevity, often remaining in the environment for centuries. Their potential health risks are increasingly recognised, with research linking certain PFAS chemicals to cancer, reproductive harm, immune disruption and thyroid issues.
Key findings
- 65 cereal products were tested across 16 European countries — the first EU-wide study of its kind.
- TFA was detected in 81.5% of samples (53 out of 65).
- Wheat-based products showed the highest contamination levels.
- The most contaminated items were Irish breakfast cereal, followed by Belgian and German wholemeal bread, and French baguettes.
- TFA was also found in pasta, croissants, flour, gingerbread, scones and sweets.
Because TFA dissolves easily in water, crops can absorb it directly from contaminated soil. Despite this, TFA in food is not routinely monitored by governments, and campaigners warn the public may be regularly consuming it without knowing.
PAN Europe is calling for stricter safety limits and a complete ban on PFAS-based pesticides. “All people are exposed to TFA through food and drinking water,” said policy officer Salomé Roynel. “We urgently need to stop further contamination of the food chain.”
Although the UK was not part of the study, the findings raise concerns there too. Twenty-seven PFAS pesticide ingredients are currently used in the UK, including several classed as highly hazardous.
Researchers say the study demonstrates the need for swift regulatory action, particularly to protect children, who are more vulnerable to chemical exposure.
