French National Assembly Passes Bill to Reduce Cadmium Contamination in Food

Paris – 06/04/2026: The French National Assembly has, in a first reading, passed a bill aimed at protecting the population from the health risks of the toxic heavy metal cadmium. Cadmium is a metal naturally occurring in soils but is introduced into the environment in elevated concentrations primarily through human activities, especially the use of phosphate-containing fertilizers. This increased contamination leads to the accumulation of the metal in agricultural products and thus in the human food chain.

The main source of cadmium contamination in France is the use of phosphate-containing fertilizers that introduce the metal into the soil. According to the French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health & Safety (ANSES), these fertilizers contribute to over 80% of cadmium inputs into agricultural soils, with 55% of these inputs coming from mineral phosphate fertilizers. This elevated concentration causes accumulation of the metal in various foods, including bread, cereal products, and potatoes. Particularly concerning is that over one-third of children under three years old exhibit cadmium levels exceeding the tolerable daily intake.

The approved bill aims to regulate the import, sale, and use of phosphate-containing fertilizers with high cadmium content. Specifically, the draft proposes to control import and sales practices for fertilizers with elevated cadmium levels and to restrict their agricultural use. These measures are to be implemented gradually to reduce soil contamination and consequently cadmium levels in food.

The adoption of this bill represents a significant step in combating environmental pollution from heavy metals. Experts highlight the necessity of reducing cadmium levels in food to minimize long-term health risks for the population. Furthermore, the importance of strengthened monitoring and regulation of fertilizer use is emphasized to protect the environment from further contamination.

Implementation of this law is expected to have a positive impact on public health and promote sustainable agricultural practices. However, it remains to be seen how effectively the gradual reduction of cadmium levels in fertilizers will be enforced and what additional measures might be needed to sustainably reduce environmental heavy metal pollution.

Overall, the passage of this bill reflects the commitment of the French government and the National Assembly to protect public health and reduce environmental contamination by toxic substances. It is hoped that further steps will follow to minimize contamination from other harmful substances and support sustainable agricultural development.