UFC-Que Choisir is warning about the presence of cadmium, a toxic heavy metal, in some industrial pastas. A recent comparative study reminds us that not all brands are equal in terms of quality and food safety.
Pasta is among the most consumed foods in many households. However, a recent comparison by the French consumer association UFC-Que Choisir reminds us that not all pasta is equal in terms of quality and food safety. The association specifically warns of the presence of cadmium, a toxic heavy metal considered a health concern, in some industrially produced pasta.
Cadmium is a heavy metal found in several common foods such as bread, cereals, biscuits, potatoes, and some vegetables.
According to the data reported, food accounts for up to 98% of exposure to this contaminant among non-smokers. This is explained by its widespread presence in soils and therefore in the food chain.
The main problem is that cadmium is eliminated very slowly from the body and can accumulate there over time.
A health risk monitored by experts
Environmental health specialists have been warning for several years about the potential effects of this heavy metal.
It is classified as a known human carcinogen and can also act as an endocrine disruptor. Some publications suggest a possible impact on DNA and oxidative stress at the cellular level.
Public health experts also point to increasing exposure in the population, including among the youngest, which reinforces concerns about daily diet.
Pasta under scrutiny in a comparative study
In this context, UFC-Que Choisir analyzed 25 pasta products available in supermarkets, organic stores and discount stores.
The study took into account several criteria: nutritional quality, presence of pesticides, mycotoxins and heavy metals, including cadmium.
The results show that not all pasta products have the same level of quality or composition. Some products stand out due to higher levels of contaminants.
A brand at the bottom of the rankings
Among the products analyzed, one item came in last place in the ranking established by the association.
These are the Turini brand 3-minute cooking twists, sold at E.Leclerc, which received an overall score of 11.3/20.
While their nutritional quality is considered average, particularly due to a low fiber content, it is primarily their cadmium level that negatively impacts their evaluation.
The study specifies that these pastas do not present any major problems related to pesticides or other contaminants such as furosine, but that the presence of cadmium remains a point of vigilance.
How to reduce your exposure to cadmium
Although it is difficult to completely avoid this contaminant present in the environment, certain dietary habits can limit exposure.
UFC-Que Choisir specifically recommends prioritizing organic products. According to its analyses, organic pasta contains on average half the cadmium of conventional products.
Environmental health experts also stress the importance of varying one’s diet and limiting highly processed grain products.
Special attention is recommended for children, as certain dietary habits can increase long-term exposure.
The primary objective remains to diversify food sources in order to reduce overall exposure to this heavy metal present in many everyday products.
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