Story perspectives

France Urged to Cut Cadmium in Food Amid Health Risks

3/25/2026

Summary

Story summary

In France, nearly half of adults exceed safe cadmium exposure levels, due largely to bread, pasta, and potatoes, per the French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health & Safety (ANSES).
Cadmium is a carcinogenic metal with risks including cancer and kidney damage.
ANSES urges urgent action to reduce cadmium in fertilizers and limit wheat-based product consumption.
Food is the main cadmium source, accounting for up to 98% in non-smokers.

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Story summary

In France, nearly half of adults exceed safe cadmium exposure levels, due largely to bread, pasta, and potatoes, per the French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health & Safety (ANSES).
Cadmium is a carcinogenic metal with risks including cancer and kidney damage.
ANSES urges urgent action to reduce cadmium in fertilizers and limit wheat-based product consumption.
Food is the main cadmium source, accounting for up to 98% in non-smokers.