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Pesticides in Cheerios, Quaker Oats Linked to Infertility in Animal Testing
February 19, 2024
Chlormequat, a chemical linked to reproductive and fertility issues in animal testing, has been found in oat-based products like Cheerios and Quaker Oats. The study found that the chemical was detected in 92% of oat-based foods purchased and consumed by Americans in May 2023.
A new EWG study reveals that chlormequat was found in the urine of four out of five people tested, or 80% of volunteers. The study says, “The groundbreaking analysis of chlormequat in the bodies of people in the U.S. rings alarm bells because the chemical is linked to reproductive and developmental problems in animal studies, suggesting the potential for similar harm to humans.”
The EWG study tested 20 oat-based foods for chlormequat, seven organic, 13 non-organic, and nine wheat-based products. Subsequently, detectable levels of chlormequat were found in 92% of non-organic oat-based foods.
However, only two samples of wheat-based foods had low levels. Only one of the seven tested organic samples had low chemical levels the study shared.
Interestingly, chlormequat typically leaves the body within 24 hours. Therefore, such a high percentage of humans testing positive for the chemical means they are regularly exposed to it and it remains in their body.
According to the National Library of Medicine, chlormequat is used as a growth regulator for the commercial production of cereal grains. But, Dr. Alok Patel, an ABC News medical contributor, believes that more research needs to be done regarding human consumption of the chemical and how it will impact humans moving forward. “Chlormequat itself is a chemical that can be harmful if exposed to large amounts of it,” said Dr. Patel.
He added that consumers need to take this study with a “big asterisk” and that the study is not “necessarily generalizable to a large population.” Patel stated that the EWG study did not reveal further implications for humans who have this chemical present within their bodies.
EPA regulations allow chlormequat on ornamental plants only. However, its use is permitted on imported oats.
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