Austria: Mold and glyphosate found in oatmeal products

A recent examination by the Upper Austrian Chamber of Labor (AK) has raised alarms over the quality of oatmeal products available to consumers. The study analyzed 13 different oatmeal products, including overnight oats and porridge, which are commonly considered a healthy breakfast option. Alarmingly, mold was detected in four of the products tested, while one contained the controversial pesticide glyphosate.  

Mold toxins can pose significant health risks, potentially harming the digestive system and compromising the immune system. The findings emphasize the importance of scrutinizing the quality of food products, particularly those consumed regularly like oatmeal.  

Of the six conventional oat products tested, two were found to be uncontaminated. However, the other four conventional products were contaminated with mold toxins, specifically the HT-2 toxin, at levels ranging from 12 to 19 μg/kg.
Although the levels of mold detected in these products were relatively low, they could raise concerns if consumed in large quantities, particularly for children, who have a lower tolerable daily intake compared to adults.

One product not only contained mold but also tested positive for glyphosate, a widely debated pesticide, initially classified by the World Health Organization as "probably carcinogenic." However, following a recent assessment by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), it was approved for continued use for another ten years in 2023.  

On a positive note, all seven organic oatmeal products tested were found to be free from both mold and pesticides.

These findings highlight the need for consumers to remain vigilant about the quality of their food products and the importance of choosing organic options when possible. The study serves as a reminder of the potential risks associated with conventional food products and the ongoing discussions surrounding pesticide use in agriculture.    

Source:  

Arbeiterkammer (AK) Oberösterreich