Study: 37% of Non-Organic California Produce Contains PFAS 'Forever Chemicals'
An Environmental Working Group (EWG) analysis revealed that 37% of non-organic fruits and vegetables grown in California contain residues of PFAS 'forever chemicals.' Out of 930 samples, 348 had traces of these pesticides, linked to immune suppression, cancer, and reproductive harm. Highly affected crops include nectarines, plums, peaches, strawberries, grapes, and cherries. EWG emphasizes that these chemicals persist, contaminating soil, water, and human bodies, urging immediate regulatory action and advising consumers to choose organic produce and wash all items thoroughly.
A new analysis by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) has uncovered that 37 percent of non-organic fruits and vegetables cultivated in California contain residues of 'forever chemicals' known as PFAS. Examining 930 samples across 78 types of produce, the study, based on state testing data, found PFAS pesticides in 348 samples. Furthermore, 40 individual types of fruits and vegetables, accounting for 51 percent of the categories tested, showed PFAS contamination.Key findings indicate high contamination rates in several popular crops: over 90 percent of nectarines, plums, and peaches sampled carried fludioxonil, a PFAS pesticide and fungicide. Strawberries, known for high pesticide use, contained the greatest variety, with 10 different PFAS pesticides detected. Grapes and cherries exhibited contamination rates of 80 percent or higher, often with multiple PFAS types. Other significantly affected crops included spinach, blueberries, and lemons.PFAS are linked to serious health issues, including immune suppression, cancer, and reproductive and developmental harm. EWG experts highlight a 'glaring hole in pesticide oversight,' pointing out that California farmers apply 2.5 million pounds of PFAS pesticides annually. These chemicals, with their strong carbon-fluorine bonds, are resistant to breakdown, leading to long-term contamination of soil, water, wildlife, and human bodies.While EWG does not advise against eating produce, they recommend purchasing organic varieties—which legally cannot use PFAS pesticides—and thoroughly washing all produce to reduce exposure. Some produce types, such as sweet potatoes, cauliflower, and avocados, had no detectable PFAS residues.
