US: Concerning findings on perchlorate contamination in food and water

In a recent investigation conducted by Consumer Reports, concerning levels of perchlorate contamination have been discovered in both food and drinking water sources. Perchlorate, a chemical component commonly found in rocket fuel and various industrial applications, has now emerged as a pervasive issue affecting consumer safety.    

The comprehensive study by Consumer Reports has revealed a disconcerting reality: despite the well-documented risks associated with perchlorate exposure, regulatory bodies have failed to address this issue effectively over the years. The presence of perchlorate in food, particularly in products aimed at infants and children, has raised serious concerns among health experts and consumer advocacy groups.    

Consumer Reports analyzed 196 samples of 63 supermarket products and 10 fast food items, as well as the packaging materials.  
The findings revealed that 67% of the samples had measurable levels of perchlorate, ranging from just over 2 parts per billion (ppb) to 79 ppb. Baby and children's foods, fast food, and fresh produce had the highest levels, with children's foods averaging 19.4 ppb. Foods packaged in plastic containers had the highest perchlorate levels, averaging nearly 54 ppb, followed by foods in plastic wrap and paperboard.    

While the detected levels did not exceed the EPA's and EFSA's suggested daily limits for a single serving (respectively 0.7 and 0.3 micrograms per kilogram of body weight per day), the cumulative exposure from multiple servings per day, especially for children, is a significant concern.    

Consumer Reports' investigation points to various pathways through which perchlorate can contaminate food sources, including water pollution, the use of perchlorate-laden plastics in food storage, and the breakdown of chemicals like bleach in food processing facilities. This contamination route underscores the significance of addressing not only direct exposure but also indirect sources of perchlorate intake.    

The health implications of perchlorate exposure are profound, with research indicating potential risks to thyroid function and hormone production, particularly in vulnerable populations such as fetuses and young children. While none of the tested foods were found to pose immediate health threats, the cumulative effect of prolonged exposure raises red flags, especially for children whose developing bodies are more susceptible to harm.    

Calls for stricter regulations on perchlorate levels in food and water have been ongoing for years, with environmental health experts advocating for more stringent safety measures to protect consumers. Consumer Reports' findings reinforce the need for revised safety standards that reflect the latest scientific evidence on perchlorate toxicity.    

The unveiling of these results may serve as a wake-up call to both regulatory agencies and consumers, underscoring the critical need for proactive measures to address perchlorate contamination and ensure the safety of our food supply.      

Source:  

Consumer Reports