News
Dec 19, 2025 - Foods
TFA content in European cereal products
The Pesticide Action Network (PAN Germany) (PAN Germany) has commissioned a study to investigate the spread of trifluoroacetic acid (TFA), a highly persistent chemical degradation product of PFAS (per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances), in cereal products in Europe.
TFA is detected in many areas of the environment, including drinking water, and is known as a "forever chemical" because it does not degrade.
The study, conducted in collaboration with environmental organizations in 16 European countries, showed alarming levels of TFA in 81.8% of the cereal samples (54 out of 66), indicating widespread contamination.
The average TFA concentration was 78.9 µg/kg, which is 1071 times higher than in tap water. Wheat products were particularly heavily contaminated, with TFA concentrations significantly higher than in other cereal products.
All samples exceeded the maximum residue limits for reprotoxic substances (0.01 mg/kg), indicating health risks, especially for children, whose daily intake can almost double the recommended safety value (ADI) of PAN Europe.
The study calls for urgent regulatory measures, including a ban on PFAS pesticides and comprehensive EU-wide monitoring of TFA in food and the environment. It highlights that TFA is increasingly prevalent in the food chain, underscoring the urgent need for action by the responsible authorities.
The Federal Institute for Risk Assessment takes up this information and has already published the following statement:
A person weighing 60 kilograms (kg) would need to eat at least eight kg of muesli a day to exceed the health-based guidance values of TFA from the highest measured value of 0.05 mg per kg body weight. Therefore, based on current knowledge, health impairments are not to be expected."
TFA is released into the environment as a degradation product of pesticides (especially flufenacet) and other sources such as fluorinated refrigerants and propellants. An acceptable daily intake (ADI) of 0.05 mg/kg body weight has been established for TFA by EFSA, which is also regarded as a reference dose.
The BfR assesses TFA as reproductive hazardous, and it continues to be investigated by the responsible institutions and authorities. An acute reference dose (ARfD) is considered necessary. EFSA is currently reviewing the health guideline values for TFA, and the BfR will update its assessment accordingly if new scientific findings become available.
Do you also have samples you would like to test for TFA or PFAS? Our Tentamus laboratories regularly carry out these investigations. We provide you with fast and reliable results.
Our customer advisors are happy to assist you with any questions.