WASHINGTON D.C. – A recent study has revealed that a pesticide, chlormequat, has been found in oat-based foods sold in the United States. This pesticide has been linked to reproductive and developmental issues in animals and was detected in products sold under major brand names such as Cheerios and Quaker Oats. The study, conducted by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) and published in the Journal of Exposure Science and Environmental Epidemiology, found that chlormequat was detected in 80% of people tested in three different regions of the U.S. Researchers also noted that the concentrations detected in 2023 samples were significantly higher than in previous years.
The use of chlormequat on food crops like wheat, oats, and barley, serves the purpose of decreasing the stem height of the plants, making them easier to harvest. The EWG study also revealed that detectable levels of chlormequat were found in almost all conventional oat-based products tested. This included products from well-known brands such as Quaker Oats and Cheerios. Additionally, the concentration of the pesticide was found to be non-detectable in some cases, while in others there was a high prevalence of chlormequat in oats.
In response to these findings, questions have arisen regarding the potential harm that chlormequat may pose to humans. While some studies have linked the chemical to reproductive or developmental issues in animals, further research is needed to determine the impact on human health.
The Environmental Working Group, a nonprofit organization focused on research and advocacy in areas such as agricultural subsidies, toxic chemicals, drinking water pollutants, and corporate accountability, conducted the study. The group has been at the forefront of raising awareness around issues related to public health and environmental safety.
As concerns about the presence of chlormequat in food products grow, it has become crucial for regulatory agencies and food manufacturers to address the potential impact on public health. The detection of this pesticide in widely consumed food items raises significant questions about the safety and regulation of the food industry.