Toxic Chemical Found in Popular Mineral Water Raises Health Concerns

EU
Published:

A recent study conducted by researchers from the Pesticide Action Network Europe has revealed alarming levels of trifluoroacetic acid (TFA), a type of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS), in several brands of mineral water across Europe. Out of 19 mineral water samples tested, 10 were found to contain TFA at concentrations up to 32 times higher than the European Union's regulatory action threshold.

The presence of TFA, categorized as a "forever chemical" due to its persistent nature in the environment, raises significant public health concerns. Experts suggest that the contamination is likely linked to the application of pesticides that break down into TFA. According to Angeliki Lysimachou, one of the study's co-authors, "This has gone completely under the radar, and it's concerning because we're drinking TFA."

TFA has been increasingly detected in various environmental sources, including rainwater and drinking water, and is believed to potentially affect fertility and fetal development. The difficulty in removing TFA from water sources complicates the situation, leading environmental consultants to advocate for preventive measures rather than relying solely on water purification technologies.

In response to these findings, countries such as Denmark and Germany are moving to implement limits on TFA levels in drinking water. Additionally, the European Commission has proposed a ban on specific pesticides tied to this chemical.

As the investigation continues, the public remains urged to stay informed about the presence of harmful substances in everyday products.

Weekly Newsletter

News summary by melangenews

Loading...

More from

European Space Agency Monitors Asteroid on Potential Collision Course with Earth

The European Space Agency (ESA) is closely monitoring an asteroid named 2024 YR4, measuring 100 meters by 40 meters, which could pose a threat to Earth in approximately seven years. According to ESA, the asteroid has a one in 83 chance of impacting the planet, potentially causing "severe damage to a local region." Currently, 2024 YR4 is about 27 million miles away and moving further from Earth, but it is expected to cross the Earth’s orbit on December 22, 2032. Experts anticipate a near miss, with the asteroid likely passing within a few thousand miles of Earth. The Space Mission Planning Advisory Group, chaired by ESA, plans to discuss the asteroid's trajectory in an upcoming meeting in Vienna. Should the impact risk be confirmed, the group will make recommendations to the United Nations and explore possible spacecraft interventions. Dr. Simeon Barber, a space scientist at the Open University, cautioned against panic, stating that early detection systems often overestimate impact probabilities due to uncertainties in the asteroid's trajectory. Early alerts like this one may become more common as detection technologies improve.
EU

European Central Bank Cuts Interest Rates Amid Economic Stagnation

The European Central Bank (ECB) has lowered its interest rates by a quarter of a percentage point to 2.75%, responding to a stagnating economy across the eurozone. This decision follows reports indicating significant slowdowns in the region's largest economies, France and Germany, both of which experienced contractions in the last quarter of 2024. Specifically, Germany's economy declined by 0.2%, while France shrank by 0.1%, and Italy recorded no growth. The ECB stated that inflation remains elevated, primarily due to wages and prices adjusting sluggishly to previous inflation spikes. Although wages have shown signs of moderation, many businesses are absorbing rising costs instead of passing them onto consumers. Carsten Brzeski, the global head of macro at ING, noted that the ECB's interest cut was warranted, but further reductions would be necessary to address the weak economic conditions. Financial markets predict additional cuts totaling one percentage point for the remainder of the year as the ECB continues to navigate persistent economic challenges.
EU

Scientists Monitor Football-Pitch-Sized Asteroid with Potential Earth Impact Risk

The European Space Agency (ESA) is closely monitoring an asteroid referred to as 2024 YR4, which is approximately 100 meters long and 40 meters wide, with a potential to hit Earth in the near future. According to ESA, there is an estimated one in 83 chance of a direct impact, which could result in significant damage to a localized area. The asteroid is currently about 27 million miles away and is moving away from Earth, but it will cross our planet's orbit on December 22, 2032. The Space Mission Planning Advisory Group is scheduled to meet in Vienna next week to discuss the asteroid's trajectory and observations. If the risk of impact is confirmed, ESA plans to recommend actions to the United Nations and consider options for a spacecraft-based response. Dr. Simeon Barber from the Open University has emphasized that there is no immediate cause for alarm as early detection systems often overestimate impact risks. He noted that improved technology could lead to more frequent alerts as the ability to track these objects advances. The asteroid was first detected by a telescope in Chile, and astronomers are currently tracking its movements.
EU
All News ->