Recent reports have raised concerns about the safety of Girl Scout Cookies, with a study detecting heavy metals and glyphosate, a common herbicide, in multiple samples. The findings have sparked a lawsuit against the Girl Scouts and their cookie manufacturers, questioning whether the beloved treats pose health risks to consumers.
What Was Found in the Cookies?
A study conducted by Moms Across America and GMOScience tested 25 samples from three states and found that:
- 96% of samples contained lead; some exceeded the FDA’s action levels for young children.
- 76% had cadmium levels above EPA recommendations for drinking water.
- All samples contained aluminum, arsenic, cadmium, lead, and mercury.
- Glyphosate, a controversial herbicide, was detected in all samples.
Thin Mints, one of the most popular varieties, had lead levels between 6 and 12 parts per billion (ppb), while cadmium ranged from 13 to 16 ppb.
Are Girl Scout Cookies Dangerous?
The Girl Scouts argue that their cookies meet all FDA, EPA, and food safety standards, claiming they are safe for consumption. However, experts point out that:
- There is no safe level of lead exposure, especially for children.
- Heavy metals can accumulate over time, leading to potential long-term health effects, including neurological issues, developmental delays, and increased cancer risk.
- Glyphosate exposure has been linked to reproductive harm and an increased risk of cancer, though research remains debated.
Should You Still Eat Them?
Experts recommend moderation, particularly for young children. Frequent consumption of contaminated foods can lead to accumulation of toxins in the body, but occasional indulgence is unlikely to cause harm.
Consumer safety advocates argue that manufacturers should conduct more thorough testing and disclose potential contaminants. Until more transparency is provided, those concerned about exposure to heavy metals and pesticides may want to limit their intake of Girl Scout Cookies.