French doctors warn of health risks tied to heavy metal in bread, cereal, and other everyday foods

French doctors are raising alarms about cadmium, a toxic heavy metal found in phosphate fertilizers and food staples like bread, cereal, and potatoes. Cadmium, which can cause cancer and damage organs, enters the food chain through crops grown in contaminated soil. Young children are especially vulnerable, with up to 36% of toddlers consuming excessive cadmium through their diets. The metal has been linked to various cancers, kidney damage, fertility problems, and bone disorders. While the EU limits cadmium in fertilizers to 60 mg/kg, France has not adopted stricter rules despite being the top consumer in the EU. The doctors urge government action, including public awareness campaigns, healthier school meals, and promoting organic food. They also warn that cadmium accumulates in the body over time and its long-term health effects may take decades to fully appear.