Insecticides found in Nutella, French study says; manufacturer claims safety

Insecticides have been detected in two types of Nutella, a globally popular chocolate spread, according to a joint report by the French non-profit "Action Against Pollution" and the National Federation of Beekeepers of France. The study found seven types of insecticides in "Nutella Plant-Based," with the neonicotinoid acetamiprid detected at 849 ng/kg. "Nutella," the original product, contained six types of insecticides, including neonicotinoids, at 483 ng/kg.

Neonicotinoids, a class of neurotoxins that attack insect nervous systems, are known to disrupt bee behavior and immunity, potentially leading to colony collapse. France has banned the use of certain neonicotinoids, such as acetamiprid and flupyradifurone, due to environmental and health risks. The report suggests that insecticides may be present in the hazelnuts, a primary ingredient, which are sourced from Turkey and Italy, countries that permit neonicotinoid use. Other ingredients like chickpeas and rice, used in the plant-based version, may also be exposed.

Ferrero, the manufacturer of Nutella, stated that the "presence of traces of a substance does not imply a health risk." The company emphasized that all products are manufactured under strict standards and comply with all food safety regulations. Indeed, the detected levels are within France's permissible limits for honey products, and no specific residue limits exist for spreads like Nutella. However, the report highlights numerous studies linking neonicotinoids to adverse health effects. Research published in "Environmental Toxicology" in 2022 indicated that a tenfold increase in blood neonicotinoid levels correlated with a 38% decrease in testosterone in men and a 33% decrease in women, potentially leading to infertility. A draft report from the French Office for the Evaluation of Scientific and Technical Choices for the Future also noted that studies on rodents suggest acetamiprid can disrupt sex hormones.

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The presence of traces of a substance does not imply a health risk. All products are manufactured under strict standards and fully comply with all food safety regulations.