Environmental Working Group (EWG) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization dedicated to protecting human health and the environment. With research and education, EWG drives consumer choice and civic action.
- EWG statement on EPA bid for court to scrap four ‘forever chemicals’ tap water limitsEWG statement on EPA bid for court to scrap four ‘forever chemicals’ tap water limits Monica Amarelo September 12, 2025 WASHINGTON – The Environmental Protection Agency is asking a federal appeals court to let it drop four vital drinking water standards that apply to the toxic “forever chemicals” known as PFAS. “It took years of hard, bipartisan work to secure these vital protections to finally start turning the tap off with PFAS water contamination. The EPA is now doing the exact opposite – trying to keep the tap running and endangering millions of Americans,” said Melanie Benesh, the Environmental Working Group’s vice…
- California bill to ban ‘forever chemicals’ in consumer products heads to governorCalifornia bill to ban ‘forever chemicals’ in consumer products heads to governor JR Culpepper September 12, 2025 SACRAMENTO – In a bold step toward better public health protections, California is poised to become the next state to ban the sale of consumer products made with the toxic “forever chemicals” known as PFAS. Senate Bill 682, authored by Sen. Ben Allen (D-Santa Monica), cleared the state Legislature and is now on its way to Gov. Gavin Newsom’s desk for his signature. If enacted, the bill would ban the sale and distribution of many consumer goods containing intentionally added PFAS, beginning in 2028. Affected products include…
- California lawmakers send to governor’s desk the nation’s first bill to require tests of prenatal vitamins for heavy metalsCalifornia lawmakers send to governor’s desk the nation’s first bill to require tests of prenatal vitamins for heavy metals JR Culpepper September 12, 2025 SACRAMENTO – Today the California Legislature took a major step toward protecting maternal and fetal health with passage of Senate Bill 646. The first-in-the-nation bill would, if signed, require prenatal multivitamin manufacturers to test for and publicly disclose levels of potentially harmful heavy metals in their products. Sen. Dr. Akilah Weber Pierson (D-San Diego) introduced SB 646, which the Environmental Working Group is co-sponsoring. The legislation next heads to Gov. Gavin Newsom’s desk, and he has until Oct. 12…
- Transcript of EWG podcast ‘Ken Cook Is Having Another Episode' – Episode 39Transcript of EWG podcast ‘Ken Cook Is Having Another Episode' – Episode 39 JR Culpepper September 10, 2025 In this podcast episode, EWG President and co-Founder Ken Cook talks with Will Westmoreland, a farmer from Missouri with 25 years of experience working on rural campaigns, elections and the land. Westmoreland is a father, grandfather and political consultant. His passion for the health of rural America focuses on bringing innovative sustainable agriculture solutions to rural communities through the Back Forty group.Cook and Westmoreland discuss the history and politics of agriculture in the U.S., especially in their shared home state of Missouri. They dive into the economics…
- EWG testimony before the California Senate Health Committee on AB 1264, to ban particularly harmful ultra-processed foodsEWG testimony before the California Senate Health Committee on AB 1264, to ban particularly harmful ultra-processed foods Iris Myers September 9, 2025 Thank you for the opportunity to testify. My name is Scott Faber, testifying for the Environmental Working Group. I also teach Food Law at Georgetown University Law Center. Prior to joining EWG, I was the Vice President for Federal Affairs for the Consumer Brands Association. The overwhelming scientific evidence shows that ultraprocessed foods have been linked to serious health harms. Processed foods are part of a healthy diet, but ultraprocessed foods, or UPF, are different from processed foods because they…
- EWG: MAHA report parrots pesticide industry playbook, abandoning RFK Jr.’s promisesEWG: MAHA report parrots pesticide industry playbook, abandoning RFK Jr.’s promises rcoleman September 9, 2025 WASHINGTON – The Environmental Working Group today criticized the Trump administration’s final “Make America Healthy Again,” or MAHA, report for abandoning MAHA leaders’ promises to ban toxic agricultural chemicals. Instead, the MAHA plan echoes the pesticide industry’s talking points. The recommendations for improving Americans’ health includes blather about “precision” agriculture. The report acknowledges “confidence” in the Environmental Protection Agency’s “robust” pesticide review process, with zero words about banning the use of harmful pesticides.A MAHA report released in May included several mentions of the health risks of pesticides,…
- California lawmakers pass first-in-nation bill to protect kids from harmful ultra-processed foods in schoolsCalifornia lawmakers pass first-in-nation bill to protect kids from harmful ultra-processed foods in schools Iris Myers September 9, 2025 SACRAMENTO – Today the California Legislature took a historic step to protect children’s health by passing a trailblazing bill to legally define ultra-processed food, or UPF, and phase out some UPF from public school meals.Assembly Bill 1264, introduced by Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel (D-Encino), received overwhelming bipartisan support from legislators in the Assembly and Senate. EWG is sponsoring the bill, which now heads to Gov. Gavin Newsom’s desk.“Our public schools should not be serving students ultra-processed food products filled with chemical additives that can…
- What is 'harmful' ultra-processed food?What is 'harmful' ultra-processed food? Ketura Persellin September 5, 2025 You’ve probably heard lately about the risks of ultra-processed food, or UPF. What you might not know is that UPF may not all be the same when it comes to our health.Some UPF can create health risks, particularly when eaten in excess. American adults get more than half their calories from UPF. Kids get even more – 67% – and exposure to UPF at an early age shapes lifelong eating habits. The health costs are significant, with rising rates of chronic disease associated with UPF consumption. High consumption of UPF has been linked to health harms, including Type…
- EWG’s Skin Deep®: Helping consumers and scientists understand the connection between personal care products and healthEWG’s Skin Deep®: Helping consumers and scientists understand the connection between personal care products and health JR Culpepper September 4, 2025 EWG’s searchable Skin Deep® database of personal care products, or PCPs, and ingredients was developed as a free resource for consumers. Years later, it’s also turned out to be useful for scientific research – and may be able to answer questions about cosmetic product types, ingredient trends and potential health concerns. What is Skin Deep?EWG’s Skin Deep is a free, public database of over 130,000 personal care products and their ingredients. Launched in 2004, it empowers and educates consumers on the safety of…
- EWG hires Samantha Romanick, Ph.D., to lead new plastics and microplastics researchEWG hires Samantha Romanick, Ph.D., to lead new plastics and microplastics research Anthony Lacey September 3, 2025 WASHINGTON – The Environmental Working Group welcomes Samantha “Sami” Romanick, Ph.D., to its team of scientists. As EWG’s analytical chemistry fellow, she will spearhead a new initiative on plastics and microplastics. The initiative will focus on the human health risks associated with plastic pollution in food and consumer products.Romanick is a molecular biologist by training whose research focuses on how microplastic exposure affects human health. She earned her Ph.D. in cellular and molecular pharmacology and physiology from the University of Nevada, Reno, where she…
- Californians fight back: Re‑Volt.org launches to take on monopoly utilities, paid-off politicians, and captured regulatorsCalifornians fight back: Re‑Volt.org launches to take on monopoly utilities, paid-off politicians, and captured regulators Anthony Lacey September 3, 2025 SACRAMENTO – The Environmental Working Group has launched a new independent utility reform project, Re-Volt, to take on California’s monopoly utilities, their stranglehold on California’s political leaders and the energy regulators they appoint.The state’s long-broken system has led to skyrocketing electricity bills, energy insecurity and a failure to protect public health and the environment. It’s the result of policies that put utility profits ahead of working families and communities. To challenge California’s big three power companies and the politicians in their pocket, Re-Volt…
- ‘Poison pill’: How Section 453 could block vital state pesticide protections‘Poison pill’: How Section 453 could block vital state pesticide protections JR Culpepper August 28, 2025 Some members of Congress are trying to sneak language into a must-pass funding bill that would effectively block state and local pesticide protections. These important safeguards protect children and homes from the risks of pesticide spraying. Pesticides have been linked to serious health harms, including cancer, neurotoxicity and harm to development and reproduction. Because of their developing bodies and brains, children are especially susceptible to potential health problems. Citing these risks, many states, cities and counties have adopted practical standards to limit pesticide use, restrict spraying…
- California lawmakers vote to advance EWG-backed food reforms and vital chemical safety billsCalifornia lawmakers vote to advance EWG-backed food reforms and vital chemical safety bills JR Culpepper August 28, 2025 SACRAMENTO – In a victory for public health, today three bills targeting harmful ultra-processed food and hazardous chemicals in consumer products cleared the California Assembly and Senate appropriations committees.The legislation includes a bill that, if enacted, would make California the first state to adopt new standards for ultra-processed food, or UPF. The second bill would require consumer disclosures for prenatal vitamins. The third would limit the toxic “forever chemicals” known as PFAS in consumer products, including cleaners and dental floss.The Environmental Working Group is…
- EWG urges Rachael Ray to reconsider opposition to California non-toxic cookware billEWG urges Rachael Ray to reconsider opposition to California non-toxic cookware bill JR Culpepper August 28, 2025 SACRAMENTO – The Environmental Working Group is urging celebrity chef Rachael Ray to drop her opposition to a California bill that would eliminate toxic cookware in the state. EWG is calling on Ray to support the legislation, now being debated in the state Senate.The legislation, Senate Bill 682, would ban the sale of cookware in the state containing the “forever chemicals” known as PFAS. One of the PFAS covered by the bill is polytetrafluoroethylene, or PTFE.In a recent letter to state lawmakers on behalf of…
- Letter to Rachael RayLetter to Rachael Ray JR Culpepper August 28, 2025 Dear Ms. Ray,We are writing in response to your recent letter to California state lawmakers opposing Senate Bill 682, which would ban cookware containing the nonstick PFAS “forever chemical” polytetrafluoroethylene, or PTFE. We implore you to reconsider your position. As a high-profile figure in cooking, you have the influence to help build support for this critical health measure.In your letter, you urge lawmakers to “look closely at the science before moving forward with legislation” and say that “PTFEs, when manufactured and used responsibly, are proven to be safe and effective.” In…
- EWG study: PFAS water treatment has double benefits, cutting toxic PFAS and carcinogensEWG study: PFAS water treatment has double benefits, cutting toxic PFAS and carcinogens Monica Amarelo August 27, 2025 WASHINGTON – Advanced systems for removing the toxic “forever chemicals” known as PFAS from drinking water can deliver far greater health benefits than previously thought because they slash levels of other harmful contaminants, a new peer-reviewed Environmental Working Group study finds.The research underscores the fact that PFAS water filtration systems can also help reduce levels of cancer-causing disinfection byproducts, or DBPs, agricultural nitrates and heavy metals like arsenic and uranium – all chemicals linked to health harms.The study, published today in ACS…
- The sip of the season: Is your pumpkin spice latte ultra-processed?The sip of the season: Is your pumpkin spice latte ultra-processed? JR Culpepper August 26, 2025 Pumpkin season is here.Taylor Swift isn’t the only person having an orange moment. Starbucks’ iconic Pumpkin Spice Latte, or PSL, launches today. The coffee giant sells about 20 million of the drink every year, raking in an estimated $500 million annually. Starbucks has sold about 500 million of this “season in a cup” since its debut in 2003, inspiring a thirst for other pumpkin spice products across multiple consumer product categories. And some of these treats can qualify as ultra-processed food, or UPF. “Craveable” treats The PSL isn’t the only food…
- Congress’ PFAS protection rollbacks betray service members and defense communitiesCongress’ PFAS protection rollbacks betray service members and defense communities Monica Amarelo August 26, 2025 Some members of Congress are pushing a sweeping repeal of hard-won safeguards for service members, veterans and defense communities against the widespread health and environmental harms of the toxic “forever chemicals” known as PFAS.The rollback would deliberately gut the very protections intended to shield the people who put their lives on the line for the U.S. The reversals are part of the pending National Defense Authorization Act, or NDAA, for fiscal year 2026. If enacted, they would undo a ban on purchasing and use of firefighting…
- EWG statement on Rep. Meng’s bill to ban harmful food dyes and chemicalsEWG statement on Rep. Meng’s bill to ban harmful food dyes and chemicals Iris Myers August 26, 2025 WASHINGTON – The Environmental Working Group applauds Rep. Grace Meng (D-N.Y.) for introducing legislation that aims to improve the safety of the U.S. food supply by banning harmful synthetic dyes and additives. The Ban Harmful Food Dyes Act is supported by EWG and Consumer Reports. If enacted, it would revoke approval for use of Blue Dye No. 1 and Blue 2, Citrus Red No. 2, Green Dye No. 3, Orange B, Red Dye No. 3 and 40, titanium dioxide and Yellow Dye No. 5.These…
- Beyond the muscle gains: What’s in your protein powder?Beyond the muscle gains: What’s in your protein powder? JR Culpepper August 25, 2025 Protein powder has been a staple of body builders and gymgoers for years, and recently it’s become a cultural phenomenon. But your post-workout snack could come with a side of potentially harmful chemicals. Promoted through a mass of social media influencers, body-building culture has never been so popular. Gyms all across the country are removing treadmills, bikes and other cardio equipment to make room for more bench press, squat and free weight areas. With the focus on muscle gains comes fascination about optimized protein intake, skyrocketing the protein powder business…
- More food companies plan to phase out harmful dyes. Here’s what has happened so farMore food companies plan to phase out harmful dyes. Here’s what has happened so far rcoleman August 19, 2025 Food dyes seem to be everywhere in snacks, drinks and many other grocery store items. But some dyes, particularly synthetic, petroleum-based ones, are linked to preventable health harms, from developmental disruption to increased risk of cancer.Yet the U.S. continues to allow their use in food, even as other countries ban them. And the Food and Drug Administration hasn’t reviewed many dyes in decades.And although some food companies have previously experimented with voluntarily removing dyes from their products, by and large they’ve stuck to using these artificial…
- The link between ultra-processed food and cardiovascular diseaseThe link between ultra-processed food and cardiovascular disease rcoleman August 19, 2025 Research and public attention to heart disease has for decades focused on its known risk factors, such as tobacco use, physical inactivity, excessive drinking and cholesterol levels. But a growing body of research points to another, often overlooked culprit: ultra-processed food, or UPF. Heart disease is one of the most common and deadly medical conditions in the U.S. It’s a type of cardiovascular disease, a group of disorders that together affect nearly half of all American adults. Not all processed foods are harmful. Cooking, canning and freezing can count as processing…
- EWG launches first-ever pet grooming category for EWG Verified® with Lil Luv DogEWG launches first-ever pet grooming category for EWG Verified® with Lil Luv Dog rcoleman August 18, 2025 WASHINGTON – Most pet shampoos contain a mystery mix of chemicals, and brands aren’t even required to disclose the ingredients. Today the Environmental Working Group is changing that with a new gold standard: EWG Verified®: Pet Grooming. It’s the first-ever certification to ensure pet shampoos, conditioners, detanglers and cleansers meet EWG’s highest standards for health, ingredient transparency and environmental safety.Lil Luv Dog, co-founded by Stephanie Suganami and Cara Santana Leto, is the first brand to meet our rigorous criteria. The company is debuting a line of…
- As the EPA looks to weaken PFAS drinking water limits, here’s how you can limit your exposureAs the EPA looks to weaken PFAS drinking water limits, here’s how you can limit your exposure rcoleman August 15, 2025 With the Environmental Protection Agency aiming to weaken national limits on the “forever chemicals” known as PFAS in drinking water, Americans are asking: How can I protect myself from these toxic substances?PFAS, a class of chemicals, have been found in about half of the drinking water in the U.S. According to results from the EPA’s UCMR 5 and state tests, PFAS are detected in the tap water of 172 million people.PFAS have been found in 98% of the American population. Centers for Disease Control…
- Backpack essentials: Sustainable back-to-school shopping ideasBackpack essentials: Sustainable back-to-school shopping ideas JR Culpepper August 14, 2025 .has--background.block-content--type-curated-block-list { padding-top: 3rem; padding-bottom: 3rem; } EWG is here to help you make more sustainable shopping choices as kids start returning to school, with tips for buying safer products like gels, wipes and more.With summer’s heat giving way to cooler days and nights, and camps packing away their tents, it’s time for binders, lunch boxes and backpacks. Back-to-school shopping is a yearly experience for most people with kids. This year, Americans are forecast to spend over $39 billion on related supplies. It’s a great time to acquire new clothing for kids…
- EWG statement on Rep. Pallone’s bill to close ‘generally recognized as safe’ food loopholeEWG statement on Rep. Pallone’s bill to close ‘generally recognized as safe’ food loophole Iris Myers August 13, 2025 WASHINGTON – The Environmental Working Group applauds Rep. Frank Pallone (D-N.J.) for today introducing legislation that would significantly improve the safety of the U.S. food supply. The Grocery Reform and Safety Act would, if enacted. reform food chemical regulation by amending the “generally recognized as safe,” or GRAS, loophole, which allows companies to add new, potentially harmful additives and other substances to food without safety review by the Food and Drug Administration. Instead, companies can declare their chemicals are safe and bypass…
- New EPA data shows 7M more people exposed to ‘forever chemicals’ in U.S. drinking waterNew EPA data shows 7M more people exposed to ‘forever chemicals’ in U.S. drinking water JR Culpepper August 13, 2025 WASHINGTON – New data released by the Environmental Protection Agency shows an additional 7 million Americans have drinking water contaminated by the toxic “forever chemicals” known as PFAS. It brings the total number of people at risk of drinking this contaminated tap water to more than 172 million across the U.S.“The EPA’s latest report confirms what scientists have feared: PFAS contamination is a public health disaster,” said David Andrews, Ph.D., acting chief science officer at the Environmental Working Group. “Drinking water is…
- Make America wait again: Delay for recommendations on healthier food, livesMake America wait again: Delay for recommendations on healthier food, lives JR Culpepper August 12, 2025 Will the Trump administration “Make America Healthy Again”? We’ll have to wait a little bit longer to find out how they plan to achieve that goal. The White House was expected to release recommendations today on improving diets and taking other steps to improve Americans’ health. But a CNN report says the plan is now due “in weeks,” with a goal of releasing it before the end of the month. The pending recommendations will follow a White House report from May concluding that poor diets, environmental toxins, lack…
- Transcript of EWG podcast ‘Ken Cook Is Having Another Episode' – Episode 36Transcript of EWG podcast ‘Ken Cook Is Having Another Episode' – Episode 36 JR Culpepper August 12, 2025 In this podcast episode, EWG President and co-Founder Ken Cook talks with Linda Birnbaum, Ph.D., and Micah Nemeyer Walsh, Ph.D. Birnbaum is a leading voice on the health impacts of environmental chemicals, having worked at the National Toxicology Program, led the Chemical Disposition Group, and served as president of the Society of Toxicology. She also worked for the Environmental Protection Agency for almost two decades, leading the National Institute for Environmental Health Sciences. Walsh received her doctorate from the University of Cincinnati in environmental and…
- Treading toward trouble: How tires pollute the planet – and our bodiesTreading toward trouble: How tires pollute the planet – and our bodies rcoleman August 12, 2025 As vehicles travel, their tires shed toxic microplastics called tire wear particles, or TWPs. TWPs pollute the air, soil and water and are linked to health harms in animals and humans. We can’t avoid TWPs entirely, but we can reduce our exposure and demand systemic change. Walking along a busy road could expose you to massive amounts of invisible pollutants, called tire wear particles, or TWPs. Each year, an estimated 6.1 million tons of these micro- and nano-plastic particles shed from tires as vehicles travel. They’re a significant…
- EWG comments to California DTSC to reiterate support on proposed inclusion of microplastics to the Candidate Chemicals ListEWG comments to California DTSC to reiterate support on proposed inclusion of microplastics to the Candidate Chemicals List rcoleman August 12, 2025 Attached are EWG's submitted comments to the California Department of Toxic Substances Control to confirm continued support for the listing of microplastics to the state agency's Candidate Chemicals List. File Download Document ewg-comments-to-dtsc-on-microplastics_aug4.pdf Areas of Focus Toxic Chemicals Nanomaterials Regional Issues California Authors Tasha Stoiber, Ph.D. August 4, 2025
- Setting the record straight: EWG wants you to eat more fruits and vegetables, organic or notSetting the record straight: EWG wants you to eat more fruits and vegetables, organic or not Monica Amarelo August 7, 2025 Every year, EWG releases its Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides in Produce™, relying on federal data to show which fruits and vegetables have the lowest and highest levels of pesticide residues. Our goal is, and always has been, to provide consumers data on the pesticide residues that federal researchers found on produce, so they can make their own informed choices about what produce to buy, organic or not. The guide includes the Clean Fifteen™ of the conventionally grown…
- In ‘huge win,’ California Supreme Court orders re-review of CPUC’s anti-rooftop solar changesIn ‘huge win,’ California Supreme Court orders re-review of CPUC’s anti-rooftop solar changes JR Culpepper August 7, 2025 SAN FRANCISCO – California’s Supreme Court today delivered a major win to environmental groups challenging regulators’ decision gutting the state’s popular rooftop solar incentive program. The high court’s opinion means the Court of Appeal will have to reconsider the merits of the California Public Utilities Commission’s decision under a stronger, less deferential, standard of review.The Environmental Working Group, Center for Biological Diversity and Protect Our Communities Foundation filed the suit over the CPUC’s 2022 decision eviscerating the solar net metering program, also known…
- EWG statement on California Supreme Court decision in rooftop solar lawsuitEWG statement on California Supreme Court decision in rooftop solar lawsuit JR Culpepper August 7, 2025 SAN FRANCISCO – California’s Supreme Court today issued its opinion in a case challenging the California Public Utilities Commission’s decision to gut the state’s rooftop solar incentive program, known as net energy metering, or NEM 3. The case was filed by the Environmental Working Group, Center for Biological Diversity and Protect our Communities Foundation.The court decided in favor of the environmental groups, reversing the judgement of the Court of Appeal and sending it back to the lower court for further proceedings. The appeals court will have…
- The air that we breathe: New study raises concerns about inhaling microplasticsThe air that we breathe: New study raises concerns about inhaling microplastics JR Culpepper August 7, 2025 New research shows that people may be breathing in potentially harmful microplastics at levels hundreds of times higher than previous estimates suggest.Many kinds of plastic products, including water bottles, packaging and supermarket shopping bags, shed these tiny particles. They’ve been found all over the world, from Antarctica to the bottom of the Marianas Trench. But researchers recently decided to measure microplastics in less remote places: their own apartments and cars. In the new study, scientists from the University of Toulouse, in France, studied plastic…
- Has the Trump administration made America healthier?Has the Trump administration made America healthier? rcoleman August 7, 2025 The Trump administration is determined to “Make America Healthy Again.” Next week, it’s expected to release recommendations to improve diets and take other steps to improve our health. It follows a White House report from May concluding that poor diets, environmental toxins, lack of physical activity and other factors have created a health crisis for America’s children. Whether the recommendations will support healthy diets and reduce exposures to harmful toxins in our air and water remains to be seen. What’s clear is that, so far, the administration’s actions have made it…
- What are retinoids?What are retinoids? rcoleman August 6, 2025 Retinoids are popular ingredients in skincare products because they can reduce wrinkles and treat acne. They work by increasing the production of new skin cells, which leads to thicker skin and prevents collagen loss. Retinoid use comes with risks of sun damage, skin cancer and, at higher doses, pregnancy complications. Retinoids and the products that contain them are often praised for their ability to reduce wrinkles and clear acne. And with the rise of skincare influencers and viral beauty trends on TikTok, Instagram and other social media platforms touting retinoids as “must haves,” they’ve…
- MAHA’s moment of truth: Will RFK Jr. stand up for people harmed by pesticides?MAHA’s moment of truth: Will RFK Jr. stand up for people harmed by pesticides? rcoleman August 4, 2025 “I told a great guy, RFK Jr., Bobby. I said, Bobby, you work on women’s health. You work on health. You work on what we eat. You work on pesticides. You work on everything,” then-candidate Donald Trump told the crowd during a campaign rally in Georgia. (.52) Throughout the 2024 presidential campaign, Trump and Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who endorsed Trump after dropping out of the race himself, repeatedly stressed the importance of limiting Americans’ exposure to toxic chemicals in the food supply,…
- Will MAHA make our food healthier?Will MAHA make our food healthier? rcoleman August 4, 2025 The Trump administration is determined to “Make America Healthy Again” and has made healthier food a central part of its strategy. Has the president in his second term made our food healthier? What would it really take to support healthy diets? So far, the administration has pledged to change how new food chemicals are reviewed and proposed a new way to triage the safety of the food chemicals we’re already eating. The White House has also secured industry commitments to remove food dyes ahead of the statutory deadline set by West Virginia. And it…
- How to cash in on clean energy tax credits before they disappearHow to cash in on clean energy tax credits before they disappear rcoleman July 25, 2025 Several consumer tax credits for renewable energy upgrades are suddenly poised for complete phaseouts over the next year, some in just a few months. The recently enacted “Big Beautiful Bill” eliminates many tax incentives designed to bring down the costs of cleaner ways to power your life, such as rooftop solar and electric vehicles. But there’s still time to take advantage of the federal tax incentives that help make it financially possible for many households to go green. Here’s what you need to know…
- Transcript of EWG podcast ‘Ken Cook Is Having Another Episode' – Episode 36Transcript of EWG podcast ‘Ken Cook Is Having Another Episode' – Episode 36 JR Culpepper July 24, 2025 In this podcast episode, EWG President and co-Founder Ken Cook talks with Mike Grunwald, one of the nation’s most prominent investigative reporters and a modern agriculture expert. Grunwald is a New York Times bestseller and has written for publications including the Boston Globe, the Washington Post, Time and Politico. Cook and Grunwald discuss Grunwald’s newest book, "We Are Eating the Earth, the Race to Fix Our Food System and Save Our Climate." They tackle how food fits into the climate debate and attempt to answer a…
- EWG statement on FDA seeking to define ultra-processed foodsEWG statement on FDA seeking to define ultra-processed foods rcoleman July 24, 2025 WASHINGTON – The Food and Drug Administration and the Department of Agriculture are seeking public input as they develop a definition for ultra-processed foods, or UPF. The following is a statement from Scott Faber, the Environmental Working Group’s senior vice president for government affairs:EWG welcomes any effort to address the health harms posed by ultra-processed foods. While many processed foods can be part of a healthy diet, ultra-processed foods are different from processed foods, because they combine industrial ingredients and additives in ways that make our food hyperpalatable. These industrially engineered foods…
- Former EPA scientists join EWG to expand, bolster EWG Verified® programFormer EPA scientists join EWG to expand, bolster EWG Verified® program rcoleman July 23, 2025 WASHINGTON – The Environmental Working Group is thrilled to welcome three distinguished experts and former Environmental Protection Agency leaders to the staff. They will help expand and strengthen EWG Verified®, the organization’s flagship initiative for safer, healthier consumer products. The trio’s deep expertise at the EPA in advancing science-based public health protections will strengthen EWG’s leadership as a trusted source for rigorous, transparent standards millions of consumers depend on.Clive DaviesVice president, EWG VerifiedDavies brings with him a wealth of scientific and programmatic leadership developed during his…
- How ultra-processed food may fuel Type 2 diabetesHow ultra-processed food may fuel Type 2 diabetes rcoleman July 23, 2025 Type 2 diabetes affects roughly 34 million Americans. The numbers are rising, especially among children, and ultra-processed food might be playing a role. Americans are increasingly consuming this type of food, which can include packaged snacks, soda, instant noodles, fast food, frozen entrees and refined bread. Americans’ dietary habits for ready-to-eat foods has gone up over the past two decades, according to a 2022 study. On average, ultra-processed food or UPF, accounts for almost 60% of an American adult’s diet. It’s even higher for kids and teens, representing more than two-thirds of their total calories. The…
- EWG analysis: Almost all new food chemicals greenlighted by industry, not the FDAEWG analysis: Almost all new food chemicals greenlighted by industry, not the FDA rcoleman July 22, 2025 Since 2000, the food and chemical industry has greenlighted nearly 99% of food chemicals introduced onto the market without federal safety review, according to a new EWG analysis. The Food and Drug Administration is responsible for ensuring food is safe. But the industry instead is deciding what food chemicals are suitable for people to eat.This problematic situation happened through companies exploiting a loophole in food chemicals laws allowing them to decide which chemicals are safe to consume. That’s contrary to what Congress intended when…
- 15 military Superfund sites claim no health risks – but PFAS in tap water tell a different story15 military Superfund sites claim no health risks – but PFAS in tap water tell a different story rcoleman July 21, 2025 Results from new Department of Defense drinking water tests seem to contradict claims by the Environmental Protection Agency saying that 15 military bases designated as EPA Superfund sites due to high levels of hazardous chemical contamination have “human exposure under control.”The EPA maintains that the amount of chemicals on the bases no longer poses a risk to human health, yet DOD test results say otherwise. Tap water testing near 15 military sites finds the toxic “forever chemicals” known as PFAS…
- EWG comments on safer sunscreens to Health Subcommittee of the House Committee on Energy and CommerceEWG comments on safer sunscreens to Health Subcommittee of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce rcoleman July 17, 2025 Attached are comments to the Health Subcommittee of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce in reference to safer sunscreens for the hearing “Legislative Proposals to Maintain and Improve the Public Health Workforce, Rural Health, and Over-the-Counter Medicines.” File Download Document ewg-statement-for-record-sunscreens-7.16.25.pdf Areas of Focus Personal Care Products Sunscreen July 16, 2025
- California Senate environmental committee approves landmark bill to protect schoolkids from harmful UPFCalifornia Senate environmental committee approves landmark bill to protect schoolkids from harmful UPF rcoleman July 16, 2025 SACRAMENTO – In a win for children’s health, today the California Senate Environmental Quality Committee passed a bipartisan bill that would, if enacted, phase out certain ultra-processed food, or UPF, from meals served in public schools. UPF are industrially manufactured and chemically modified products. They’re often made with potentially harmful additives to enhance taste, texture, appearance and durability.Assembly Bill 1264, introduced by Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel (D-Encino), would create a first-in-the-nation legal definition of UPF. The bill would also task Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment scientists to work…
- EWG testimony before the California Senate Environmental Quality Committee on AB 1264, to ban particularly harmful ultra-processed foodsEWG testimony before the California Senate Environmental Quality Committee on AB 1264, to ban particularly harmful ultra-processed foods rcoleman July 16, 2025 Thank you for the opportunity to testify. My name is Scott Faber, and I am the Senior Vice President for Government Affairs for the Environmental Working Group. I also teach Food Law at Georgetown University Law Center. Prior to joining EWG, I was the Vice President for Federal Affairs for the Consumer Brands Association. Processed foods are part of a healthy diet, and AB 1264 does not prohibit schools from offering processed foods. However, ultraprocessed foods are different from…
- In a big win for clean energy, Sen. Becker and others scrap anti-rooftop solar text from AB 942In a big win for clean energy, Sen. Becker and others scrap anti-rooftop solar text from AB 942 rcoleman July 15, 2025 SACRAMENTO – The Environmental Working Group applauds California state Sen. Josh Becker (D-Menlo Park) and other senators for today removing anti-rooftop solar language from Assembly Bill 942. The move safeguards the state’s flagship clean energy program from yet another utility-backed attack.“We’re grateful to Sen. Becker and other state senators for listening to the growing public outcry and standing up for rooftop solar,” said Bernadette Del Chiaro, EWG’s senior vice president for California. “The language that was removed was a brazen…
- California Assembly committee advances nation’s first bill to require tests of prenatal vitamins for heavy metalsCalifornia Assembly committee advances nation’s first bill to require tests of prenatal vitamins for heavy metals rcoleman July 15, 2025 SACRAMENTO – Today the California Assembly took a major step toward protecting maternal and fetal health with passage of Senate Bill 646 by the Committee on Environmental Safety and Toxic Materials. The first-in-the-nation bill would, if enacted, require prenatal multivitamin manufacturers to test for and publicly disclose levels of potentially harmful heavy metals in their products. Sen. Dr. Akilah Weber Pierson (D-San Diego) introduced SB 646, and the Environmental Working Group is co-sponsoring the bill. The legislation next goes to the Assembly Appropriations Committee for…
- EWG: Frequent violations of paraquat use in Pennsylvania point to health risks for farmers and rural residentsEWG: Frequent violations of paraquat use in Pennsylvania point to health risks for farmers and rural residents rcoleman July 15, 2025 The toxic pesticide paraquat was mishandled at Pennsylvania farms, violating safety requirements, at least 18 times between 2018 and 2023, an EWG investigation finds.The investigation raises serious questions about the potential health risks to farmers who apply the chemical and to people living and working in communities near where it’s used. EWG’s findings are based on state records of paraquat use violations received through a public records request. Paraquat handling violations in Pennsylvania between 2018 and 2023Dangerous misuseLong-term exposure to paraquat…
- Bang for your buck: Budget-friendly shopping with EWG’s Clean Fifteen™Bang for your buck: Budget-friendly shopping with EWG’s Clean Fifteen™ JR Culpepper July 10, 2025 Eating clean doesn’t have to be expensive.EWG can help you make smarter produce shopping choices, highlighting budget-friendly fruits and vegetables with the least amount of pesticide residue. Options include bananas, carrots, onions, watermelon and more.You can find these and other items on the Clean Fifteen™ in EWG’s recently released Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides in Produce™. Every year, our scientists analyze Department of Agriculture data about pesticide residues on fruits and vegetables. The Clean Fifteen lists produce with the least residue, and the Dirty Dozen™ lists those with the most.No…
- Cleaning house: California bill targets PFAS in cleaners and cookwareCleaning house: California bill targets PFAS in cleaners and cookware rcoleman July 9, 2025 A sweeping new bill the California Legislature is considering would protect public health by banning cookware and cleaning products that contain the toxic “forever chemicals” known as PFAS. Senate Bill 682 builds on the state’s efforts to reduce peoples’ exposure to harmful chemicals. If enacted, it would prohibit the distribution, sale or offering for sale of products that contain intentionally added PFAS. The ban would go into effect in 2028. Cookware and cleaning supplies often contain these substances, which can leech into food and the environment and are…
- How ultra-processed foods harm kids – and what to do about itHow ultra-processed foods harm kids – and what to do about it rcoleman July 9, 2025 Many of us love snacks. Chips, cookies, lunchables, sodas – you name it. If purchased from a store, they are often ultra-processed foods, or UPF. They’ve been getting a lot of attention, in part because of how they may harm children. A large portion of dietary energy intake for most kids and adults comes from these foods.What are UPF?UPF are formulated to be “craveable” – designed to be tasty, cheap and ready-to-eat.EWG defines UPF as food products that contain one or more of certain functional ingredients, including artificial colors…
- National, state environmental groups urge California Senate to halt anti-solar AB 942National, state environmental groups urge California Senate to halt anti-solar AB 942 rcoleman July 9, 2025 SACRAMENTO – A coalition of 14 California-based and national environmental organizations is calling on state Sen. Josh Becker (D-Menlo Park), chair of the state Senate Energy, Utilities and Communications Committee, to block Assembly Bill 942. They warn that the bill would betray and punish millions of rooftop solar adopters and undermine the state’s clean energy leadership.In a July 8 letter, the groups describe AB 942, authored by Assemblymember Lisa Calderon (D-Whittier), a former Southern California Edison executive, as “the antithesis of good leadership.” The groups…
- California lawmakers rushing anti-solar bill without waiting for crucial Supreme Court rulingCalifornia lawmakers rushing anti-solar bill without waiting for crucial Supreme Court ruling rcoleman July 7, 2025 California lawmakers are hastening consideration of a bill that could further quash the state’s popular rooftop solar program – before the state Supreme Court rules in a case that could determine whether changes already implemented for the “net metering program” must be reassessed. The state Assembly scrambled in early June to advance Assembly Bill 942 quickly, suspending rules that would have slowed a vote on the controversial measure. The bill now awaits consideration by the Senate’s Energy, Utilities and Communications Committee. If enacted, AB 942 would…
- EWG lauds reintroduction of House food chemical safety review billEWG lauds reintroduction of House food chemical safety review bill rcoleman July 6, 2025 WASHINGTON – The Environmental Working Group applauds the reintroduction today of House legislation that would require the Food and Drug Administration to meaningfully review the safety of food chemicals.The bill would require the FDA to ensure the safety of chemicals that have entered the food supply chain through loopholes, or that the agency reviewed decades ago.The Food Chemical Reassessment Act of 2025, introduced by Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D-Ill.), would impose these new mandates on the FDA’s Office of Food Chemical Safety, Dietary Supplements and Innovation.The bill also…
- A farm bill for the one-tenth of the 1%A farm bill for the one-tenth of the 1% JR Culpepper July 3, 2025 Don’t call it a budget reconciliation bill. Call it a “farm bill for the one-tenth of the 1%.” That’s because the budget reconciliation bill the House passed today will make it easier for the wealthiest farmers to receive farm subsidies.In particular, the bill increases the limit on farm subsidies for certain commodity crops from $125,000 to $155,000. Less than one-tenth of 1% of farms received more than $125,000 linked to government price guarantees in 2024, according to farm subsidy data provided by the Department of Agriculture. Only one-tenth of 1%…
- EWG testimony before the California Senate Education Committee on AB 1264, to ban particularly harmful ultra-processed foodsEWG testimony before the California Senate Education Committee on AB 1264, to ban particularly harmful ultra-processed foods rcoleman July 2, 2025 Thank you for the opportunity to testify. My name is Scott Faber, testifying for the Environmental Working Group. I also teach food law at Georgetown University Law Center. Prior to joining EWG, I was the vice president for federal affairs for the Consumer Brands Association. The scientific evidence shows overwhelmingly that ultraprocessed foods have been linked to serious health harms, including Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Processed foods are part of a healthy diet, and AB 1264 does not…
- California Senate committee advances landmark bill to protect schoolkids from harmful UPFCalifornia Senate committee advances landmark bill to protect schoolkids from harmful UPF rcoleman July 2, 2025 SACRAMENTO – Advancing commonsense policy to protect children’s health, the California Senate Education Committee today passed a bipartisan bill that would phase out certain ultra-processed food, or UPF, from meals served in public schools. UPF are industrially manufactured and chemically modified products. They’re often made with potentially harmful additives to enhance taste, texture, appearance and durability.Assembly Bill 1264, introduced by Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel (D-Encino), would create a first-in-the-nation legal definition of UPF. The bill would also task Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment scientists to work with University of…
- USDA policies fall short in helping Mississippi River region farmers adapt to extreme weatherUSDA policies fall short in helping Mississippi River region farmers adapt to extreme weather rcoleman July 2, 2025 Anne Schechinger July 15, 2025 Millions of cropland and pasture acres in the 13-state Mississippi River Critical Conservation Area, or MRCCA, lie within flood plains at greater risk of climate-driven extreme weather like flooding or excessive rainfall. Yet federal farm policies aren’t doing enough to help farmers in these vulnerable areas enhance needed resilience to worsening climate threats.Two of the most important Department of Agriculture farm programs, in particular, fall short of providing farmers critical assistance in climate adaptation.The first, the USDA’s…
- Experts warn viral TikTok skincare trends may expose kids and teens to harmful ingredientsExperts warn viral TikTok skincare trends may expose kids and teens to harmful ingredients rcoleman June 30, 2025 TikTok is full of influencers’ “get ready with me” videos showcasing glossy creams and trendy serums. Kids and teens watch these and then start their own complex skincare routines, sometimes filming them for their own TikToks. But some of the the products featured in these videos could expose children and teens to ingredients that damage delicate, developing skin, according to a new study. Researchers at Northwestern University reported many of the skincare products young TikTok users see in videos posted by other kids and…
- MAHuh? Trump taps pesticide industry insider to regulate pesticides, abandoning MAHA promisesMAHuh? Trump taps pesticide industry insider to regulate pesticides, abandoning MAHA promises JR Culpepper June 30, 2025 WASHINGTON– In a move that starkly contradicts campaign pledges to crack down on toxic pesticides, President Donald Trump has appointed longtime agriculture lobbyist Kyle Kunkler to serve as the nation’s top pesticide regulator at the Environmental Protection Agency, according to a report in E&E News.Kunkler is a former lobbyist for the American Soybean Association and the Biotech Innovation Organization. He will now lead the EPA’s Office of Pesticide Programs, despite years of advocating against restrictions on farm chemicals such as glyphosate and atrazine. These are…
- EWG comments to California Department of Pesticide Regulation on the process to identify priority pesticidesEWG comments to California Department of Pesticide Regulation on the process to identify priority pesticides rcoleman June 30, 2025 EWG submitted comments to the California Department of Pesticide Regulation on the agency's proposed process for pesticide prioritization. File Download Document ewg_comments-to-dpr-on-pesticide-prioritization_050825.pdf Areas of Focus Toxic Chemicals Pesticides Regional Issues California Authors Alexis Temkin, Ph.D. Bernadette Del Chiaro May 8, 2025
- Minnesota farmers would not gain much from GOP budget farm subsidy proposalsMinnesota farmers would not gain much from GOP budget farm subsidy proposals rcoleman June 29, 2025 The House and Senate budget reconciliation bills are packed with loopholes that will send tens of billions more dollars in subsidies to the largest farms. But most farmers in Minnesota would not benefit much, if at all, from these proposed changes. The bills include proposals that would raise total national spending on farm subsidies by: Increasing crop price guarantees by 10% to 20%Making 30 million additional acres of farmland eligible for subsidy paymentsRaising payment limits from $125,000 to $155,000 per personAllowing every member of a farm…
- New York becomes first state to require ingredient labels on baby diapersNew York becomes first state to require ingredient labels on baby diapers rcoleman June 26, 2025 In a historic move for consumer transparency, New York has become the first state in the nation to require manufacturers to disclose all intentionally added ingredients on baby diaper packaging. Senate Bill S2279C, which the state will start enforcing no later than December 2025 is a first-of-its-kind mandate that applies to both disposable and reusable diapers. It aims to give parents critical information they currently lack about the ingredients and materials that go into diapers. Many people assume that if a product is sold…
- Meet the members of Congress voting on their own federal farm subsidy checksMeet the members of Congress voting on their own federal farm subsidy checks rcoleman June 26, 2025 At least 14 lawmakers will likely vote soon to increase the size of the farm subsidy checks they keep getting from the federal government. These members of Congress and their families raked in millions of dollars through federal farm subsidy programs between 1995 and 2024, according to updated information in EWG’s Farm Subsidy Database. The group includes nine members of the House and Senate agriculture committees. And a vote by these lawmakers for the budget bill Congress is debating would make it easier for their checks…
- Transcript of EWG podcast ‘Ken Cook Is Having Another Episode' – Episode 35Transcript of EWG podcast ‘Ken Cook Is Having Another Episode' – Episode 35 JR Culpepper June 25, 2025 In this podcast episode, EWG President and co-Founder Ken Cook talks with Bob Greenstein, one of the nation’s most respected voices on budget policy. Greenstein is founder and president emeritus of the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities and a visiting fellow in economic studies at the Brookings Institution’s Hamilton Project.Cook and Greenstein discuss President Donald Trump’s Big Beautiful Bill, which Congress is considering – and how it could end food and health care support for millions of Americans.They assess how the House…
- Transcript of EWG podcast ‘Ken Cook Is Having Another Episode' – Episode 35Transcript of EWG podcast ‘Ken Cook Is Having Another Episode' – Episode 35 JR Culpepper June 25, 2025 In this podcast episode, EWG President and Co-Founder Ken Cook talks with Marion Nestle, one of the nation’s most respected voices on nutrition and food politics. They’ll take on the push by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to achieve “Make America Healthy Again” goals through changes to federal food policy.Cook and Nestle explore Kennedy’s complicated – and at times confusing – position on nutrition. They agree with Kennedy’s shining a light on Food and Drug Administration failures. But they…
- EWG statement on banned toxic chemicals found in personal care products sold in CaliforniaEWG statement on banned toxic chemicals found in personal care products sold in California rcoleman June 18, 2025 SACRAMENTO – More than 170 personal care products occupy store shelves in California, even though they contain toxic chemicals banned under state law.That’s the result of a review by the state’s Department of Public Health as part of the California Safe Cosmetics Program. Chemicals found in the products include hazardous substances such as formaldehyde and mercury, certain phthalates, and the “forever chemicals” known as PFAS. They are linked to serious health problems like cancer, hormone disruption and harm to the nervous system.California enacted the Toxic-Free Cosmetics Act in 2020, which banned…
- Majority of EWG's audience surveyed washes fruits and vegetables before eatingMajority of EWG's audience surveyed washes fruits and vegetables before eating rcoleman June 18, 2025 To learn more about how consumers address concerns over pesticide residues on produce and food safety, EWG conducted a survey about whether people wash their fruits and vegetables.Survey responses – almost 900 over the course of a week – came through EWG’s social media channels, Food News website and email newsletter. The results show that washing produce is something many people do – although their exact methods vary.We asked how often people wash their produce, the way they wash their produce, and for how long. Washing produce…
- Two new studies find harmful chemicals in children’s bedrooms and mattressesTwo new studies find harmful chemicals in children’s bedrooms and mattresses rcoleman June 18, 2025 Researchers are finding more evidence that kids are likely exposed to toxic chemicals while they sleep, according to a recent pair of studies. The main source of these chemicals is mattresses, which can contain harmful substances such as phthalates, flame retardants and the toxic “forever chemicals” known as PFAS. Mattresses typically emit these chemicals, which are linked to a range of health harms. And it happens with many popular babies’ and children’s mattress brands. The chemicals release into the air from solids, creating an exposure risk for…
