Share this @internewscast.com

A little-heard-of pesticide linked to infertility in animals is showing up in the overwhelming majority of oat-based foods sold in the United States, including popular cereal brands Quaker Oats and Cheerios.

The chemical, chlormequat, was detected in 77 of 96 urine samples taken from 2017 and 2023, with levels increasing in the most recent years, a new study by the Environmental Working Group finds.

Further, chlormequat was found in 92% of oat-based foods sold in May 2023, including Quaker Oats and Cheerios, according to the research published Thursday in the Journal of Exposure Science and Environmental Epidemiology. 

Some studies have shown chlormequat can damage the reproductive system and disrupt fetal growth in animals, a cause for concern as to “whether it could also harm humans,” EWG stated. 

Environmental Protection Agency regulations allow chlormequat to be used on ornamental plants only, not food crops, grown the U.S. 

However, its use has been allowed since 2018 on imported oats and other foods sold across the country, and the EPA is now proposing to let chlormequat be used on barley, oat, triticale and wheat grown in the U.S — a plan the EWG opposes. 

Organic fare is a safer bet, with just one of seven organic samples found to contain low levels of chlormequat, EWG said.

“Until the government fully protects consumers, you can reduce your exposure to chlormequat by choosing products made with organic oats, which are grown without synthetic pesticides such as chlormequat,” according to the nonprofit advocacy group. 

Cheerios maker General Mills and Quaker Oats, a division of PepsiCo, did not respond to requests for comment.


Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like

UK Hospitals with High Mortality Rates: NHS Trusts with Elevated Patient Deaths, According to Report – How Does Your Hospital Compare?

NHS hospitals in England where patient fatalities are higher than expected have…

Experts Alert: Dangerous Parasites Infecting Humans in the US and Spreading Deadly Diseases

Bugs in the southeastern US may be spreading deadly, disease-causing parasites, experts…

Two Popular British Foods That Help Reduce Blood Pressure

Drinking tea and nibbling on dark chocolate could boost your heart health.…

Over-the-Counter Supplement Helps 8-Year-Old Regain Ability to Walk

A compound that can make a common over-the-counter supplement has given an…

Wes Streeting Addresses Potential Doctor Strikes – What It Means for You

The British Medical Association (BMA) has revealed plans for resident doctors, previously…

Chris’s Struggle to Save His Wife Amidst Medical Oversight: Vital Lessons for Every Family

Chris Yates pleaded with nurses and counselors to save his wife’s life.…

Man Loses Leg Due to First Aid Error

A father-of-one has told how he was forced to have his leg…

How frequently a microbiologist suggests you should wash your bedding

A microbiologist has revealed exactly how often we should be washing our…

Alarming Rise in Criminalization of High-Risk HIV Groups Due to New Strict Laws Worldwide

People at higher risk of HIV, such as gay men and people…

Dr. Hilary Jones Reveals Unique Method to Improve Mood Swings and Reduce Blood Pressure

TV doctor Hilary Jones has shed light on an “unusual tactic” that…

The Lesser-Known Nutrient That Combats Fatigue and Enhances Well-Being

Over the years, the body’s capacity to transform CoQ10 into ubiquinol diminishes…