Home / Environment / Alarming PFAS Use on CA Food Crops Revealed
Alarming PFAS Use on CA Food Crops Revealed
13 Jan
Summary
- California farms applied 2.5 million pounds of PFAS annually, totaling 15 million pounds.
- PFAS, known as 'forever chemicals,' are sprayed on crops like almonds and wine grapes.
- PFAS consumption is linked to serious health issues including cancer and birth defects.
Recent findings indicate that farms across California have been deliberately applying millions of pounds of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as 'forever chemicals,' to vital food crops. Between 2018 and 2023, an estimated 15 million pounds of these chemicals were applied, averaging 2.5 million pounds annually, according to an Environmental Working Group review of state data.
The 'forever chemicals' are used as inactive ingredients in pesticides to enhance their spread and adherence. However, their highly mobile nature means they can be easily absorbed by water-rich produce like almonds, tomatoes, and wine grapes, leading to potential contamination of food, water, and soil. This practice spans 58 California counties, with notable concentrations in agricultural hubs.
The persistence of PFAS in the body and environment is a major concern, as consumption has been linked to severe health problems, including cancer, kidney and liver disease, and immune system damage. Farmworkers and nearby communities face disproportionately higher risks due to direct exposure and potential groundwater contamination, highlighting a critical public health issue.
