In 2025, a genetically unique hybrid STEC/STEC strain was the cause of a foodborne illness outbreak that affected exclusively adults, with 90 percent of patients developing hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) and three deaths occurring.
Ready-to-eat (RTE) pâté en croute contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes and produced by Drôme Ardèche Tradition has sickened 12 people across France, resulting in two deaths. All patients were hospitalized.
The first set of results focuses on acrylamide and certain toxic heavy metals. Although the levels of some contaminants in food are decreasing overall, the population's exposure still remains concerningly high.
Following a global recall of infant formula products due to cereulide toxin contamination, EU officials are taking steps to prevent illnesses from cereulide-tainted formula in the future. Cases of mild illness associated with recalled product have been reported in Europe.
A first-of-its-kind French study has demonstrated that food additives are consumed as mixtures by children and adults, underscoring the importance of considering combined exposures in food safety evaluations.
The French agency ANSES published the results of a two-year, national sampling and testing assignment for “forever chemicals” in drinking water, which was conducted to inform future monitoring strategies. Although most analyzed samples fell below regulatory limits for PFAS, TFA was found in 92 percent of samples.
The French National Agency for Food, Environmental, and Occupational Health and Safety (ANSES) has proposed an expanded monitoring scheme for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) based on a first-of-its-kind inventory of PFAS contamination and toxicity, comprising more than 247 “forever chemicals.”
A French analysis of anaphylaxis cases revealed eight foods causing a notable number of allergic reactions, which are not included on the EU list of major food allergens requiring mandatory labeling. The researchers recommend four of these hidden allergens for inclusion on the list.
In France, 21 people have been sickened and two have died in a listeriosis outbreak linked to pasteurized milk cheeses produced by the Chavegrand company. Additionally, one person in Belgium has been infected with the same strain of Listeria monocytogenes.
A recent analysis of French milk and infant formulas has revealed the presence of titanium dioxide—which is banned as a food additive in the EU due to potential toxicity—in all human and animal milk samples, as well as in most infant formula samples. Researchers raise concerns about implications for infant health, and question routes of exposure leading to contamination.
