Most People Have Been Exposed to Little-Known Pesticide: Study

A largely unknown pesticide, chlormequat, is likely present in the bodies of the majority of U.S. residents, prompting concerns about potential reproductive and developmental issues, according to a study led by toxicologist Alexis Temkin from the Environmental Working Group (EWG). The study found chlormequat in four out of five people tested, raising alarms about potential harm even without individuals being aware of consumption.

Animal studies indicate that chlormequat can harm the reproductive system and disrupt fetal growth, altering head and bone development and interfering with key metabolic processes. Although the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) restricts the use of chlormequat to ornamental plants in the U.S., the pesticide has been permitted on imported oats and other foods since 2018. This change, implemented during the Trump administration, allows chlormequat to prevent bending in oat and grain crops, facilitating harvesting.

The EWG calls for increased testing of foods for chlormequat by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Additionally, it urges the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to include the pesticide in its bio-monitoring program. Despite regulatory changes in recent years, the EWG emphasizes the need for robust monitoring and regulation of pesticides to safeguard public health.

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