A new study has detected concerning levels of trifluoroacetic acid (TFA), a toxic “forever chemical,” in common cereal-based foods across Europe. Research by Pesticide Action Network Europe (PAN) found TFA in 81.5% of 65 cereal products tested in 16 countries, with concentrations in breakfast cereals averaging 100 times higher than levels typically found in tap water.
TFA forms when pesticides containing PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) break down in soil. PFAS chemicals, used in industry and consumer products since the 1950s, are known for their persistence in the environment, taking centuries to degrade. As they enter soil and water, they can be absorbed by crops — particularly wheat — which explains why products like bread, pasta and cereals showed high contamination.
The study revealed the highest TFA levels in Irish breakfast cereal, followed by Belgian and German wholemeal bread and French baguettes. Contamination was also found in pasta, croissants, flour and even sweets.
TFA is classed as reprotoxic, meaning it may impair fertility and foetal development, and has been linked to thyroid, liver and immune system effects. Despite these risks, TFA is not currently monitored in food by governments.
Campaigners warn that widespread exposure through food and water demands urgent regulatory change. PAN Europe is calling for a ban on PFAS pesticides and tighter safety limits, stressing the risk to children.
While the UK was not part of the study, PFAS pesticides remain widely used there, with 27 known active ingredients still in circulation — six considered highly hazardous. Researchers say the findings highlight the need for stricter controls before contamination worsens.
