It’s incredible: EFSA proposes to increase the tolerable daily dose of perchlorate in foods. This is a controversial substance that can have repercussions on the well-being of our thyroid. A public consultation is open until 11 February 2025
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The problem of contamination of our food with pesticide residues and other potentially toxic substances is now evident. Chemicals used in agriculture, such as pesticides, but also i industrial contaminants that accumulate in foodsalbeit in small doses but for long periods, represent a threat to public health.
In such a delicate context, European regulations should have the task of protecting consumers, ensuring that the foods sold are safe and free of harmful residues.
Currently, however, it is causing a lot of discussion proposal from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) to raise the tolerable daily intake (TDI) of perchlorate, a controversial chemical.
Perchlorate and its health effects
Perchlorate is a chemical that can contaminate foods mainly through the use of fertilizers in agriculture and due to industrial activities such as the production of fireworks and the recycling of explosive materials.
Its presence in foods is a cause for concern, as it can have negative effects on health, particularly on thyroid function.
Perchlorate is in fact known for its ability to inhibit the absorption of iodine by the thyroid gland, thus interfering with the production of thyroid hormones. This is especially dangerous for fetuses and newborns, for whom such hormones are crucial for normal central nervous system development and overall growth. Interference with thyroid function can lead to metabolic disorders, reduced growth and delays in cognitive development.
EFSA’s proposal and the risks for consumers
EFSA’s proposal is to increase the tolerable daily intake (TDI) of perchlorate from 0.3 to 1.4 micrograms per kilogram of body weight per day. The decision is based on an updated review of scientific data and experts are convinced that, at current exposure levels, there are no risks to people’s health.
However, some doubts remain as to whether Europe is really doing enough to protect its citizens. In fact, the increase in the DGT risks further exposing the population, in particular the most vulnerable groups such as children and pregnant women, to dangerous chemical substances.
EFSA’s proposal to increase the tolerable limits of perchlorate in foods is however still there undergoing public consultation. This means that although the proposal has been put forward, it has not yet been adopted as final legislation. The consultation provides the opportunity for all interested parties to express their views and contribute to the decision-making process. It is vital that consumers, organizations and industry experts actively participate to ensure that final decisions are based on a full and accurate assessment of public health risks. You have time to do it until February 11th.
Europe has a duty to put consumer health first by adopting stricter measures to regulate contaminants in food. Consumer protection should never be negotiable, and European regulations should always be geared towards maximum reduction of exposure to chemicals, not easing restrictions. Will it really end up like this for perchlorate?
