PFAS - Forever Chemicals on Foods

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently approved isocycloseram, a pesticide classified as a “forever chemical,” for use on golf courses, lawns, and various food crops including oranges, tomatoes, almonds, peas, and oats. This marks the second approval of a PFAS pesticide within two weeks under the current administration, with plans to approve three more in the coming year. The decision has sparked significant concern among environmental and health advocates due to the chemical’s persistence in the environment and its potential health risks, especially to children.

Pesticide application on golf course, highlighting environmental concerns

What Are PFAS and Why Are They Called Forever Chemicals?

PFAS stands for perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, a large group of man-made chemicals known for their resistance to heat, water, and oil. This resistance means they do not break down easily in the environment or the human body, earning them the nickname “forever chemicals.” PFAS accumulate over time and have been linked to various health problems.

Isocycloseram, the newly approved pesticide, is moderately to highly persistent and can transform into at least 40 smaller PFAS compounds, some of which are even more persistent. This persistence raises concerns about long-term contamination of soil, water, and food supplies.

Health Risks Linked to Isocycloseram and PFAS Exposure

Research shows that exposure to isocycloseram can cause serious health effects including:

• Reduced testicle size

• Lower sperm count

• Liver toxicity

  
  

While the EPA concluded that dietary exposure levels would not cause these harms in the general population, it did not apply a child-safety buffer. This buffer is a safety margin used in other pesticide approvals to protect children, who are more vulnerable to chemical pollutants. Without this buffer, the risk to children from dietary exposure may be underestimated.

Nathan Donley, environmental health science director at the Center for Biological Diversity, criticized the EPA’s decision, stating it puts children at greater risk of reproductive and liver damage for generations.

Environmental Impact Beyond Human Health

PFAS pesticides like isocycloseram also pose a threat to ecosystems, particularly to pollinators such as bees. Bees are essential for pollinating many crops, and their decline can have cascading effects on food production and biodiversity.

The extreme toxicity of PFAS to bees raises concerns about the broader environmental consequences of widespread pesticide use. Contamination of soil and water can affect not only target pests but also beneficial insects and wildlife.

The Pattern of PFAS Approvals Under the Current Administration

The approval of isocycloseram follows the EPA’s recent authorization of another PFAS pesticide just two weeks earlier. The administration plans to approve three more PFAS pesticides within the next year, signaling a trend toward increased use of these persistent chemicals despite growing evidence of their risks.

This approach contrasts with the rising public and scientific awareness of PFAS dangers, including their links to cancer, immune system disruption, and developmental problems in children.

What This Means for Consumers and Communities

Consumers may be exposed to PFAS residues through food grown with these pesticides. While current exposure levels are considered low, the cumulative effect of multiple PFAS sources is not fully understood. Communities near treated areas may face higher risks due to environmental contamination.

Parents and caregivers should be aware of these risks and advocate for stronger protections, including:

• Stricter regulations on PFAS pesticide approvals

• Inclusion of child-safety buffers in risk assessments

• Increased monitoring of PFAS levels in food and water

  
  

Alternatives and Steps Forward

Given the persistence and toxicity of PFAS pesticides, exploring safer alternatives is critical. Integrated pest management (IPM) strategies, organic farming practices, and the development of less harmful pesticides can reduce reliance on PFAS chemicals.

Policymakers and regulators must balance agricultural needs with public health and environmental safety. Transparent risk assessments and public input can help ensure decisions prioritize long-term wellbeing.