ANSES report: chemical contaminants in food dropping, but risks persist

For over 25 years, the French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health & Safety (ANSES) meticulously tracks, through its Total Diet Studies (EAT), what citizens actually consume by purchasing, cooking, and analyzing thousands of food samples.  

The initial results of the latest iteration, EAT 3, have just been released. While the data shows a general decline in exposure to several heavy metals and chemical compounds, experts warn that for certain substances like cadmium and methylmercury, the levels remain a significant public health concern.  

The study highlights the success of long-term public health policies. Lead exposure from drinking water has plummeted both in adults and in children, thanks to the phased removal of lead piping and the ban on leaded gasoline.  

Similarly, acrylamide, a chemical that forms when starchy foods are fried or roasted at high temperatures, is seeing a downward trend. Notable progress has been made in coffee, with acrylamide levels dropping significantly. Despite the improvement, overall exposure remains too high. ANSES continues to urge caution regarding fried potato products, which offer little nutritional value but high chemical intake.  

While some levels are falling, others are stagnating or rising in specific food groups.  

While inorganic mercury poses little risk to the general population, methylmercury remains a concern. It concentrates in large predatory fish like tuna. To balance nutritional benefits with safety, ANSES suggests limiting fish to two servings per week, varying the species, and ensuring at least one is "oily" fish.  

Cadmium remains a complex challenge because it is found in many dietary staples. High consumers of bread, pasta, potatoes, and shellfish are at the highest risk. Because cadmium enters the food chain through various environmental paths, ANSES is currently preparing a dedicated monograph to address this specific metal.  

The EAT 3 findings are just the beginning. According to study coordinators Morgane Champion and Véronique Sirot, the upcoming months will see the release of data on even more "modern" contaminants, including PFAS (the so-called "forever chemicals"), pesticides, nisphenols and phthalates.  

While the general trend toward lower concentrations is a victory for regulation, the agency emphasizes that "lowering our guard" is not an option. Future reports will provide consumers with actionable guidance to further reduce their intake through simple daily habits.      

Source:  

ANSES

ANSES