A study conducted by the European Network for Action against Pesticides identified very high levels of trifluoroacetic acid (TFA), a substance referred to as "forever chemical," in cereal-based products from 16 European countries.

TFA is a secondary product resulting from the decomposition of pesticides containing PFAS, extremely persistent chemicals used since the 1950s. Due to its high solubility in water, TFA accumulates in agricultural crops, contaminating the food chain. A recent study analyzed 65 food products in Europe, finding that 81.5% of them were contaminated, many exceeding the permissible limits.

The highest levels of TFA were found in breakfast cereals from Ireland, whole grain bread from Belgium and Germany, and French baguettes. PFAS, referred to as 'forever chemicals', decompose extremely slowly, having negative effects on health, including reproductive toxicity. Although exposure to TFA is constant, European authorities do not monitor this contamination. Environmental organizations are calling for urgent measures, including banning PFAS-containing pesticides and establishing clear limits for TFA in food.