Cadmium Metal Detected in Most Pasta Examined in France
A study conducted in France found cadmium in the vast majority of popular pasta brands sold in supermarkets.
A consumer rights magazine in France revealed that cadmium metal was found in 34 out of 36 different pasta products examined.
Details and Findings of the Research
In a study conducted by the French consumer protection magazine "60 millions de consommateurs," the contents of leading pasta brands on the market were examined in detail.
Which Products Contained Cadmium
Thirty-six products, half of which were spaghetti and half penne, featuring the most consumed brands such as Barilla, Lustucru, and Panzani, were compared, and cadmium metal was detected in 34 of the packages.
Highest Ratios and Clean Products
Among the analyzed products, only two gluten-free pastas came out clean, while it was determined that the highest rate of cadmium was seen in Barilla whole wheat pastas.
Measured Quantities and Legal Limits
Cadmium was measured at 0.066 milligrams per kilogram in Barilla penne pasta and 0.071 milligrams per kilogram in its spaghetti. It was stated that these rates comply with European Union standards and are below the legal limit.
Source and Risks of Cadmium
It was recalled that the difference in cadmium levels stems from the raw material source, and that wheat grown in high-cadmium soils causes this situation. It was emphasized that long-term consumption could pose a risk, particularly for the kidneys.
Sectoral Evaluations and Expert Opinions
Christine Petit, General Secretary of the French Pasta Manufacturers Association, stated that legal regulations mandate the use of durum wheat, but imports have increased with rising competition.