A recent University of Delaware study has shown that, although certain irrigation management approaches can reduce the levels of either cadmium or arsenic in rice crops, irrigation management may not be able to simultaneously mitigate both of the chemicals.

A new study has revealed how leafy greens like spinach absorb various toxic metals differently and offers strategies to reduce uptake, highlighting practical solutions for farmers, food processors, and consumers.

A recent European Food Safety Agency (EFSA) technical report has summarized emerging chemical risks to food safety identified by the agency and its processes for doing so, covering the period 2020–2023.

A recent, 8-year-long analysis of U.S. dark chocolate and cocoa products revealed a significant portion of samples to contain cadmium and lead levels exceeding California Proposition 65 maximum allowable limits, although concentrations of toxic heavy metals were seen to reduce over time.

Researchers from Tulane University assessed the levels and risks of toxic metals in chocolates sold in the U.S., made from beans originating from different global regions.

An expert report commissioned by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) weighed the nutritional benefits of seafood consumption against the health risk of dietary exposure to contaminants in seafood, with special consideration to childhood growth and development. 

To protect the health of young children, the Baby Food Safety Act of 2024 has been introduced in U.S. Congress to give FDA the authority to enforce scientifically established limits on heavy metals in commercially produced infant and toddler food.

A recent study comparing the presence of chemical contaminants in conventionally and hydroponically grown produce found pesticide residues and toxic heavy metals in a larger number of conventional samples than in hydroponic samples. Phthalate levels were consistent between conventional and hydroponic samples.

AOAC INTERNATIONAL's metals scientific community has formed a working group to review regulations and requirements for metals content in food, and to update the AOAC Standard Method Performance Requirements for metals analysis. The working group is also reviewing existing methods based on Codex Alimentarius requirements for metals analysis.
 

NASEM has completed a study to better understand the nutritional benefits of seafood consumption versus the health hazards posed by contaminants like toxic heavy metals. The study fulfills a request from FDA, partly in a Closer to Zero effort to answer questions about mercury exposure. A webinar about the findings will be held on March 26, 2024.