The US Environmental Working Group (EWG), conducted research into the presence of toxic pesticides in baby food. Alarmingly it found that 40 percent of the baby foods that were analysed contained such toxins in varying quantities, while organic products did not. The level of the toxins posed a health threat to babies, the research team concluded. “Among pesticides it detected were acetamiprid, a neonicotinoid insecticide that harms bees and humans, and captan, which is linked to cancer. Fludioxonil, a product commonly used on fruits, vegetables and cereals, was found in five products and is thought to harm fetal development, cause changes in immune system cells and disrupt hormones.” Babies as developing beings are particularly vulnerate to such toxins, and baby food is the principal way that they are exposed to these chemicals.
This was a US study, but in the light of these results, it would be timely for a similar study to be done on the presence of toxic pesticide residues in the baby food our Australian babies are being fed. And, the conclusion of the US study, to feed babies on organic foods, which are available even in our supermarkets, is sound advice for our mothers.
