European wines are also vulnerable to contamination from so-called “Forever Chemicals,” as indicated in a study released on Wednesday by PAN Europe (Pesticide Action Network Europe).
The NGO’s report underscores a rise in the presence of TFA molecules, which are residues of PFAS, in European bottled products purchased from supermarkets.
PFAS, which stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, comprise a vast array of man-made compounds. These chemicals are often referred to as “forever chemicals” due to their persistence in nature; they do not decompose readily over time.
The survey
A study conducted across 10 European Union wine-making nations shows concentrations that can be up to 100 times greater compared to what is typically found in tap water, the NGO reports, raising concerns about contamination from various origins.
“As it turns out, these fluorinated gases are commonly found in our cooling systems and are significant contributors to emissions released into the atmosphere,” explained Salomé Roynel, a policy officer at PAN Europe.
“As far as
groundwater contamination
As for our concerns, we understand that the primary source is PFAS pesticides since these chemicals are applied directly to the soil, contaminating crops and ultimately ending up in the groundwater,” she explained.
A pivotal moment in 1988
By examining wines, researchers have managed to perform a historical analysis and peer into the past. According to the NGO, there were no detectable levels of TFA in wines prior to 1988. However, following this year, the presence began to rise gradually and accelerated notably starting in 2010.
PAN Europe indicates that this change towards the end of the 1980s was associated with the signing of the Montreal Protocol, an agreement designed to safeguard the ozone layer by eliminating certain substances.
Roynel highlighted that the Montreal Protocol resulted in the utilization of fluorinated gases, which release TFA, and during this same timeframe, PFAS pesticides were also created.
There is a distinct correlation observable between the increase in TFA pollution or wine contamination and the rise in the usage of fluorinated gases and PFAS pesticides.
Toxicity to rabbit foetuses
PAN Europe has also revealed that they discovered traces of TFA in organic wines. Consequently, the organization is advocating for a cautious strategy since this compound “has been overlooked for an extended period.” As Roynel pointed out, “There are limited research studies regarding its toxic effects.”
She went on to say, ‘Nevertheless, recent research carried out by the industry has revealed adverse impacts on the offspring of rabbits, indicating potential reproductive toxicity and consequently influencing fetal growth.’
Roynel admitted that eliminating TFA molecules is feasible. Nevertheless, the process involves expensive technologies that demand substantial energy and rely on water usage. Consequently, this prompts concerns about how to handle the wastewater generated from this treatment.
PAN Europe is utilizing this report to urge EU Member States to take action. These 27 countries are scheduled to convene next month for negotiations aimed at potentially prohibiting a PFAS-based pesticide.
