French Health Authorities Warn of Heavy Metal Exposure in Food Amid New Cadmium Ban Proposal

French health authorities have raised alarms over the exposure of the population, especially children, to concerning levels of heavy metals such as cadmium, aluminium, and mercury through their diet. The Agence nationale de sécurité sanitaire (Anses) highlighted these health risks on February 12, referencing findings from the third Total Diet Study (EAT3), a comprehensive investigation into chronic chemical contaminant exposure from food. The study, which targets over 250 substances, also flags concerns regarding lead and acrylamide — the latter formed during cooking at temperatures exceeding 120°C. Further results covering pesticide residues and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are expected in the coming years.

Coinciding with the release of these findings, a legislative proposal aimed at reducing heavy metal risks was examined on the same day. The proposed law seeks to prohibit the use of fertilizers containing cadmium, a metal recognized for its carcinogenic properties. Ecologist deputy Benoît Biteau, who champions the legislation, emphasized the urgency of reducing cadmium's presence in the food chain to protect public health.

These developments underscore growing concerns about chronic exposure to hazardous chemical pollutants in French food. The EAT3 study’s broad scope and ongoing research promise to deepen understanding of such risks, while the proposed legal measures represent a tangible step toward mitigating them. The simultaneous warnings by Anses and legislative action highlight a coordinated approach to address heavy metal contamination and ensure safer food standards for the French population.