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Cadmium detected in majority of tested pasta products
A study by the consumer magazine 60 Millions de Consommateurs has revealed that cadmium, a toxic heavy metal, is present in the majority of tested pasta products. Out of 36 varieties of spaghetti and penne analyzed, 34 contained traces of the metal. The highest levels were detected in Barilla whole wheat products, with concentrations reaching up to 0.071 mg/kg.
While these levels remain below the European Union's legal limit of 0.18 mg/kg for durum wheat, health experts warn of significant long-term risks. Cadmium accumulates in the body, particularly in the kidneys, and is difficult to eliminate. Prolonged exposure is linked to kidney failure, bone weakness, and increased cancer risks. Experts noted that for a 40 kg child, consuming five portions of pasta per week could account for more than one-fifth of their weekly tolerable limit for cadmium.
In France, the Union of Health Professionals (URPS) and the Food Safety Agency (ANSES) have raised alarms regarding cadmium in processed cereals and grains, particularly for vulnerable populations like infants and children. Scientists attribute the presence of the metal in the food chain to the use of phosphate-based fertilizers. Experts are calling for stricter fertilizer regulations and enhanced monitoring to mitigate these public health risks.
Entities
60 Millions de consommateurs · Anses · Barilla · European Union · France
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The Union of Health Professionals (URPS) warned that cadmium levels in processed cereals pose risks to infants and children. www.kentgazetesi.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Analyses by ANSES identified pasta and processed grains as high in cadmium load. www.kentgazetesi.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] A 40 kg child eating five portions of pasta per week could exceed one-fifth of their weekly tolerable cadmium limit. halktv.com.tr
- [● 2 SOURCES] Barilla whole wheat spaghetti showed cadmium levels up to 0.071 mg/kg. halktv.com.tr · www.sondakika.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] Out of 36 pasta products tested, 34 contained traces of cadmium. halktv.com.tr · www.sondakika.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] A study by the consumer magazine 60 Millions de Consommateurs found cadmium in most tested pasta products. halktv.com.tr · www.sondakika.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] The detected cadmium levels remain below the EU legal limit of 0.18 mg/kg. halktv.com.tr · www.sondakika.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Cadmium enters the food chain primarily through phosphate-based fertilizers. www.kentgazetesi.com