Girl Scout Cookies and Toxins: Are They Safe to Eat?
There’s been a buzz lately about Girl Scout cookies containing harmful toxins like heavy metals and the herbicide glyphosate. But don’t worry—experts say these cookies are still safe to enjoy!
What the Reports Say
Consumer groups, such as Moms Across America and GMOScience, recently posted lab results claiming that Girl Scout cookies tested positive for glyphosate and heavy metals like lead, mercury, and arsenic. These reports stirred concerns online, especially on platforms like TikTok, where people started sharing their own homemade cookie recipes.
What the Tests Really Show
The testing showed traces of these chemicals, but here’s the key: the levels found were within safe limits set by health authorities like the FDA, EPA, and CDC. For example, the highest level of glyphosate found in a cookie sample was far below what would be harmful. In fact, a 66-pound child would need to eat about 9,000 cookies in one day to even come close to reaching dangerous levels of glyphosate.
Public health scientist Dr. Jessica Steier explained that while trace amounts of these substances are in the cookies, they’re in amounts well below levels that could cause harm. The contaminants—such as heavy metals—are naturally found in the environment, especially in soil, water, and air, and they appear in many foods, not just cookies.
Why This Isn't a Big Concern
While the lab reports raised alarms, experts say the concern is overblown. The presence of trace amounts of heavy metals in food is common because these metals naturally exist in the earth. The FDA and CDC monitor and regulate safe levels of these substances in our food, and the amounts found in Girl Scout cookies are far below the safety thresholds.
Even if a cookie contained more lead, cadmium, or mercury, you would have to eat thousands of them for it to even start to approach the threshold that could be concerning.
Girl Scouts' Response
The Girl Scouts of America (GSUSA) reassured the public, saying their cookies are made with ingredients that meet strict safety standards. They emphasized that the contaminants detected in the cookies are not added during production but are naturally occurring in the environment. The baking companies they partner with follow rigorous safety measures to ensure that all cookies are safe to eat.
Conclusion: No Need to Panic
At the end of the day, Girl Scout cookies are safe to eat. While it's always good to be aware of what's in your food, the levels of glyphosate and heavy metals found in these cookies are well below the limits set by health authorities. So, you can continue enjoying your Thin Mints and Samoas without worry!
