France sees sharp rise in cadmium exposure from everyday foods

A market scene in France. Staple foods widely consumed across France are a major source of cadmium exposure, according to health officials. AP - Bob Edme

Cadmium exposure is rising in France, with nearly half of adults exceeding safe levels because of contamination in everyday foods such as bread, pasta, potatoes and vegetables, health authorities have warned – calling for urgent action to cut the risks linked to the cancer-causing metal.

Anses, France’s food safety agency, said on Wednesday that the population was experiencing “strong and increasing” exposure to cadmium, mainly through food.