Study Finds that 100 Percent of Children’s Food Tested for Pesticide Residues and Metals is Safe

Ottawa: As part of the Canadian Food Inspection Agency’s (CFIA) annual monitoring of various food products, a survey released today found that 100 percent of children’s food tested for pesticide residues and metals was safe for consumption.

When elevated levels of metals or pesticide residues are detected, Health Canada may conduct an assessment to determine if the specific level poses a health risk, based on the level, expected frequency of exposure and contribution to overall diet. These factors help determine whether further action is needed, up to and including product seizure and/or recall. If a human health risk is found, a public recall notice is issued.

This CFIA study was initiated in 2010-2011 under the annual Children’s Food Project (CFP). More than 2,500 tests were performed on 879 samples, producing over 300,000 results. The foods analyzed are commonly consumed by infants and toddlers aged 0-2 years. They included a variety of cereal, fruit and vegetable-based products.

All levels of pesticides and metals detected were compliant with Canadian standards. The findings are also consistent with previous studies and demonstrate again that the Canadian food system remains one of the strongest in the world.

This and other CFIA studies are part of an ongoing testing regimen to help keep food sold in Canada safe for Canadian families and their children.

Further information on this survey report is available at: www.inspection.gc.ca.