Study Detects Potential Autism-Related Harmful Chemicals in All Girl Scout Cookie Brands

Toxic Chemicals Found in Girl Scout Cookies, Study Warns

A recent study has revealed alarming levels of toxic substances in Girl Scout Cookies, including glyphosate (the key ingredient in Roundup weed killer) and heavy metals like lead, arsenic, and cadmium. These contaminants have been linked to serious health risks, including autism and cancer.

Key Findings

• Glyphosate detected in all samples: Every cookie tested contained glyphosate and its byproduct AMPA, with some exceeding safety thresholds. Thin Mints from Louisiana showed the highest levels (800 ng per cookie), while Lemonades from Iowa contained over 1,140 ng per cookie.
• Heavy metals present: Approximately 88% of samples tested positive for five toxic metals (aluminum, arsenic, cadmium, lead, mercury). Notably, 96% contained lead, and 79% had cadmium levels surpassing EPA limits. Peanut Butter Patties had the highest metal contamination, including 531.25 ng of lead and 300,000 ng of aluminum per cookie.

Scientists found glyphosate and heavy metals in popular Girl Scout Cookie varieties.

Health Risks

• Glyphosate: Linked to autism in animal studies, with prenatal exposure raising concerns. While the EPA claims trace amounts are safe, the European Food Safety Authority sets stricter limits (500 ng/g daily).
• Lead: No safe exposure level exists, per the FDA. Risks include kidney damage, high blood pressure, and developmental issues.
• Cadmium: Chronic exposure may harm kidneys, bones, and increase cancer risk.
• Aluminum: High levels may impact the nervous system and are tentatively linked to Alzheimer’s.

Glyphosate, widely used in agriculture, was found in all cookie samples tested.

Study Details
The research, conducted by nonprofits GMOScience and Moms Across America, tested 25 cookie samples from California, Iowa, and Louisiana. Heavy metals were analyzed by New Jersey Laboratories, while glyphosate testing was handled by Indiana’s Health Research Institute. The findings have not yet undergone peer review.

Girl Scouts’ Response
The Girl Scouts of the USA emphasized their commitment to safety, stating cookies are made by "trusted licensed bakers" adhering to FDA standards. They highlighted that cookie sales support local troops.

Lead, cadmium, and aluminum were detected in nearly all samples tested.

Controversy Over Safety
While the EPA deems trace glyphosate in food “not of concern,” critics argue cumulative exposure from multiple sources poses risks. A 2021 study linked maternal glyphosate exposure to autism-like behaviors in mice. Heavy metals, however, have clearer dangers, with lead and cadmium known to accumulate in the body over time.

Call for Change
The study urges transparency and stricter agricultural practices to reduce contamination. “Identifying and eliminating sources of these toxins is critical to safeguarding public health,” researchers stated. They also expressed concerns about broader implications for other processed foods.

Thin Mints had glyphosate levels over 100 ng/g, exceeding some international guidelines.

Parents and consumers are advised to stay informed about food supply risks, as the study underscores potential gaps in food safety regulations. For now, the debate continues between regulatory assurances and independent researchers’ warnings.