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.
- California balcony solar bill sails through key Senate committee California balcony solar bill sails through key Senate committee JR Culpepper March 17, 2026 SACRAMENTO – The Environmental Working Group today praised the California Senate Energy, Utilities and Communications Committee for advancing Senate Bill 868 by a unanimous 12‑0 vote. The bill would allow Californians to install small, portable “balcony solar” systems in apartments, condos, and single-family homes.Known as the Plug and Play Solar Act, SB 868 is authored by Sen. Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco) and sponsored by EWG and The Abundance Network.“Imagine plugging an appliance into a standard wall outlet and instantly lowering your electricity bill,” said Bernadette Del Chiaro, EWG…
- 6 real policies to help people eat real food6 real policies to help people eat real food Ketura Persellin March 12, 2026 Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. kicked off the “Eat Real Food” campaign last month, promising a series of food and nutrition policy changes to “Make America Healthy Again.”So far, it has failed to act, instead providing a dog and pony show that distracts from policy decisions undermining public health at every turn. Talking the talkFrom the release of its 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans to a heavily scrutinized Superbowl ad featuring Mike Tyson, the administration has made its nutrition agenda clear: It wants Americans to…
- Leading health and environmental groups urge N.Y. lawmakers to ban toxic herbicide paraquatLeading health and environmental groups urge N.Y. lawmakers to ban toxic herbicide paraquat JR Culpepper March 11, 2026 Albany, N.Y. – A coalition of leading public health and environmental organizations sent a letter today urging swift passage of the Prohibit Paraquat Act, which would ban the use, sale and distribution of the highly toxic herbicide paraquat in the state. The letter, sent to New York State Assembly Speaker Carl E. Heastie and Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins, urges the legislature to take action on A10074 / S9094 this session. Paraquat is commonly used on crops such as corn, soybeans, strawberries, pears, grapes…
- Is green beer safe to drink? Your guide to a happier, healthier St. Patrick’s DayIs green beer safe to drink? Your guide to a happier, healthier St. Patrick’s Day JR Culpepper March 10, 2026 This weekend, bars across the country will serve their booze with a festive twist: beer dyed green in honor of St. Patrick’s Day. If you choose to drink alcohol, you may already be comfortable with a certain level of risk. Alcohol use increases the risk of several types of cancer and other chronic diseases, and experts agree that drinking less is almost always better for your health. Then there’s the matter of dyeing beer green. It carries its own health risks, which may be of…
- New data shows 176M exposed to ‘forever chemicals’ as Trump EPA rolls back drinking water limitsNew data shows 176M exposed to ‘forever chemicals’ as Trump EPA rolls back drinking water limits JR Culpepper March 10, 2026 WASHINGTON – About 176 million people in the U.S. drink tap water contaminated by the toxic “forever chemicals” known as PFAS, according to new test data released by the Environmental Protection Agency. That’s four million more Americans exposed to PFAS in drinking water than EPA found in previous tests. The total keeps moving closer to EWG’s 2020 estimate that PFAS is in the water of 200 million Americans.At the same time as the known number of exposed people has gone up, the Trump administration…
- California appeals court sides with CPUC, utilities in serious blow to rooftop solarCalifornia appeals court sides with CPUC, utilities in serious blow to rooftop solar Anthony Lacey March 10, 2026 SACRAMENTO – The California Court of Appeal has dealt a major setback to rooftop solar, siding with the California Public Utilities Commission and the state’s three monopoly electric utilities in a closely watched case.The March 9 ruling affirms the court’s prior decision that also backed the commission, or CPUC, and the power companies. That ruling upheld the CPUC’s policy that sharply scaled back the state’s rooftop solar incentive program, known as net energy metering, or NEM 3.The following is a statement from Environmental…
- New California bill would require diaper manufacturers to fully disclose chemical ingredientsNew California bill would require diaper manufacturers to fully disclose chemical ingredients JR Culpepper March 9, 2026 SACRAMENTO – A bill introduced today aims to give parents and caregivers a clearer picture of what’s in the diapers they trust for their infants and toddlers every day. Assembly Bill 1901 would, if enacted, require manufacturers of children’s diapers sold, distributed or manufactured in California to fully disclose their ingredients on the product’s packaging and online.The California Diaper Ingredient Disclosure Bill addresses growing concerns about the chemicals and other ingredients in diapers, many of which are linked to serious health and environmental risks. AB 1901…
- Syngenta exits paraquat production, but other manufacturers will continue supplying itSyngenta exits paraquat production, but other manufacturers will continue supplying it Anthony Lacey March 6, 2026 The agricultural chemical and seed giant Syngenta announced it will stop producing the toxic weedkiller paraquat by the end of June this year. But this is a tactical retreat, not a public health victory.Syngenta currently produces paraquat at just one plant, in the United Kingdom. It will cease production of paraquat at the facility before July. But the decision is unlikely to significantly reduce the use of paraquat on U.S. farms, where it remains widely sprayed, despite growing evidence linking it to Parkinson’s disease and other serious…
- EWG statement on House farm billEWG statement on House farm bill Anthony Lacey March 5, 2026 WASHINGTON – H.R. 7567, the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026, breaks from the longstanding bipartisan, collaborative process that has traditionally produced durable farm bills, the Environmental Working Group says.This proposal turns its back on hungry families, erodes public health protections from pesticides, overlooks the needs of workers and consumers, undermines farmers’ access to proven conservation programs, lacks the robust investments and reforms necessary to propel small family farms forward and weakens longstanding environmental laws.The following is a statement from Geoff Horsfield, legislative director at EWG:This bill fails to…
- How to speed-read a nutrition label in three steps (or less)How to speed-read a nutrition label in three steps (or less) Anthony Lacey March 5, 2026 Sometimes food labels are so complex it feels like you need a degree in food science to go grocery shopping – especially if you’re trying to eat less ultra-processed food, or UPF. Typically made in industrial settings with additives, artificial colors or flavors, and ample sugar, salt, or fat, UPF have been linked to a host of health problems.Navigating complicated ingredient lists or misleading claims about what’s in a product can make it much harder to eat healthfully. That’s why EWG supports policies that make it easier for…
- PFAS pesticides contaminate nearly 40% of non-organic California-grown producePFAS pesticides contaminate nearly 40% of non-organic California-grown produce Anthony Lacey March 4, 2026 SACRAMENTO – Almost 40% of non-organic fruits and vegetables grown in California – which supplies more than half the nation’s produce – had residues of pesticides that are “forever chemicals” known as PFAS, a new Environmental Working Group analysis finds.Out of 930 samples of 78 types of non-organic California-grown fruits and vegetables tested, 348 samples, or 37%, had traces of PFAS pesticides, based on state testing data EWG reviewed.Within those 78 produce categories, 40 individual types of fruits and vegetables, or 51% of the different categories, had some residue of…
- ‘Forever chemicals’ contaminate nearly 40% of non-organic California-grown produce‘Forever chemicals’ contaminate nearly 40% of non-organic California-grown produce rcoleman March 4, 2026 Alexis Temkin, Ph.D. Varun Subramaniam, M.S. New analysis finds PFAS pesticides on peaches, strawberries and other popular fruits March 11, 2026 Overview 37% of non-organic, or conventionally grown, California produce samples had residues of pesticides that are “forever chemicals” known as PFAS A total of 17 different PFAS pesticide residues were found on 40 produce types, including peaches, plums, strawberries and grapes California farmers apply 2.5 million pounds of PFAS pesticides in 58 counties annually, on average, raising additional concerns about soil and water contamination California is…
- Syngenta stopping global paraquat production doesn’t end need for states to enact bansSyngenta stopping global paraquat production doesn’t end need for states to enact bans Anthony Lacey March 3, 2026 Clarification appendedWASHINGTON – The Environmental Working Group welcomes Syngenta’s announcement today that it will cease production of the toxic weedkiller paraquat at its United Kingdom facility. But it doesn’t change the fact that U.S. state legislators must keep fighting to ban the notorious chemical.There are dozens of other paraquat herbicides on the market today, sold by other companies. Syngenta has also made no announcement about its brand Gramoxone that contains paraquat. Paraquat is still being produced by other companies at facilities in China.Exposure…
- West Virginia bill to ban harmful food chemicals from schools clears key voteWest Virginia bill to ban harmful food chemicals from schools clears key vote Iris Myers February 27, 2026 CHARLESTON, W.V. – Today the West Virginia Senate passed a bill, introduced by West Virginia Sen. Brian Helton (R-District 9), to protect school children in the state from harmful food chemicals. The Environmental Working Group supports the bill, S.B. 745. If enacted, it would ban West Virginia public schools from serving food containing 23 additives.The additives are: titanium dioxide, butylated hydroxytoluene, butylated hydroxyanisole, tert-butylhydroquinone, sodium benzoate, propyl gallate, azodicarbonamide, aloe vera, propylparaben, potassium bromate, butylparaben, acetaldehyde, propylene oxide, ethoxyquin, acrolein, aspartame, sucralose, acesulfame K, diacetyl,…
- If Trump won’t ban glyphosate, he can at least reduce kids’ exposure to itIf Trump won’t ban glyphosate, he can at least reduce kids’ exposure to it JR Culpepper February 27, 2026 Last week, President Donald Trump invoked the Defense Production Act to boost the American supply of glyphosate-based herbicides, declaring the controversial weedkiller essential to national security. For many in the “Make America Healthy Again” movement, the grassroots army of health-conscience voters who helped propel him back into office, it was an utter betrayal.On the campaign trail in 2024, Trump promised to crack down on pesticides in food. He embraced Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s long-running crusade against toxic chemicals like glyphosate and pledged to put…
- Senate proposal would gut key provisions of chemical safety lawSenate proposal would gut key provisions of chemical safety law Monica Amarelo February 26, 2026 WASHINGTON – In a coordinated assault on public health, the Senate introduced a proposal to dismantle the Toxic Substances Control Act, or TSCA, the nation’s primary defense against hazardous chemicals. The draft legislation, along with a House bill released in January, would effectively strip the Environmental Protection Agency of its power to keep cancer-causing substances out of cleaning supplies, toys, furniture and other products.If signed into law, either proposal would undercut core protections against toxic chemicals in consumer products and drinking water. They would open the marketplace to new…
- New proposal in Congress would gut key provisions of landmark chemical safety law, putting families’ health at riskNew proposal in Congress would gut key provisions of landmark chemical safety law, putting families’ health at risk Monica Amarelo February 26, 2026 WASHINGTON – A new Senate draft bill would dismantle core protections of the nation’s main chemical safety law and make it easier for toxic chemicals to enter homes, schools and workplaces, according to the Alliance for Health and Safe Chemicals, a national coalition of organizations and networks. The group issued an urgent warning following the release of draft legislation to amend the Toxic Substances Control Act, or TSCA, the bipartisan law Congress overhauled in 2016. The Senate Committee on Environment and Public…
- How a new House bill could gut state protections from harmful chemicalsHow a new House bill could gut state protections from harmful chemicals Anthony Lacey February 26, 2026 State bans on toxic chemicals – including cancer-causing formaldehyde in children’s products and the “forever chemicals” known as PFAS in clothing and other consumer products – are under threat from a House bill.The legislation, recently introduced by Republicans, would overhaul the nation's chemical safety law, the Toxic Substances Control Act, or TSCA. The changes could allow federal officials to override stronger state protections by reviewing and regulating chemicals themselves. If the officials claim a chemical poses less risk than some states claim, state rules…
- Trump tariff bailout sends billions to mega farms, speeding consolidationTrump tariff bailout sends billions to mega farms, speeding consolidation JR Culpepper February 24, 2026 Nearly 40% of the $11 billion taxpayer-funded farm bailout meant to offset the effects of the Trump administration tariffs, known as bridge payments, will likely flow to the largest farms.An EWG analysis found that farms growing more than 1,000 acres of commodity crops would take in the large percent of the bailout, the Farmer Bridge Assistance Program. This latest bailout, unveiled in December, reinforces the longstanding pattern of federal farm aid disproportionately benefiting the biggest, most profitable farm operations in the country. This will increase costs…
- EWG statement: RFK Jr. doubles down on defense of Trump order boosting glyphosate production, betraying vow to crack down on toxic pesticidesEWG statement: RFK Jr. doubles down on defense of Trump order boosting glyphosate production, betraying vow to crack down on toxic pesticides Monica Amarelo February 23, 2026 WASHINGTON – Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is standing firm in his defense of a White House executive order to ramp up production of the weedkiller glyphosate. That’s the very herbicide Kennedy once condemned in court as a “probable carcinogen.” Now the Trump administration is treating this toxic pesticide as if it were a matter of national defense. And it’s invoking the Defense Production Act, a power typically reserved for wartime emergencies,…
- New science finds babies exposed to more ‘forever chemicals’ than previously knownNew science finds babies exposed to more ‘forever chemicals’ than previously known Monica Amarelo February 20, 2026 A new peer-reviewed study raises fresh concerns about how exposure to the toxic “forever chemicals” known as PFAS may affect health from the very start of life – and how to most effectively tackle contamination from multiple PFAS. The study reveals a sobering reality: Babies are exposed to a much wider and complex mixture of PFAS before they even take their first breath. The research, published in Environmental Science & Technology, used advanced screening methods to analyze umbilical cord blood collected at birth…
- Scalp exposure: New study finds harmful chemicals in almost all hair extensionsScalp exposure: New study finds harmful chemicals in almost all hair extensions Monica Amarelo February 20, 2026 More than nine in 10 hair extensions sold in the U.S. contain chemicals linked to serious health harms, including cancer and hormone disruption, a new peer-reviewed study finds.The study raises concerns about extensions being an overlooked source of chemical exposure, particularly for Black women, who are the main users of these products and already face disproportionate health risks from exposure to certain personal care products.Published in Environment & Health, the peer-reviewed study, by researchers at the Silent Spring Institute, centered on the most…
- EWG: Trump’s glyphosate executive order a ‘big middle finger to every MAHA mom’EWG: Trump’s glyphosate executive order a ‘big middle finger to every MAHA mom’ Anthony Lacey February 18, 2026 WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump today signed an executive order invoking the Defense Production Act to guarantee the supply of glyphosate-based herbicides, claiming it is critical to national security.“If anyone still wondered whether ‘Make America Healthy Again’ was a genuine commitment to protecting public health or a scam concocted by President Trump and RFK Jr. to rally health-conscious voters in 2024, today’s decision answers that question,” said EWG President and co-Founder Ken Cook. “I can’t envision a bigger middle finger to every MAHA mom…
- In betrayal of MAHA, House GOP farm bill exposes kids to pesticidesIn betrayal of MAHA, House GOP farm bill exposes kids to pesticides Monica Amarelo February 13, 2026 WASHINGTON – House Republicans’ newly released farm bill proposal would undermine public health, environmental protection and food security, while handing sweeping new protections to pesticide manufacturers at the expense of children and communities. The proposal fails to restore the deep cuts to SNAP, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, that Republicans and the Trump administration pushed through last year. The cuts threaten food access for millions of struggling families. House Republicans also included an alarming and controversial provision that would erase state and local pesticide safety laws…
- At EPA and FDA, Zeldin and RFK Jr. celebrate a year in office – while public health suffersAt EPA and FDA, Zeldin and RFK Jr. celebrate a year in office – while public health suffers Anthony Lacey February 13, 2026 Friday the 13th is supposed to be unlucky – and for Americans’ health, it may be just that. That’s because it marks the anniversary of Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s swearing-in as health secretary. It also marks a year of inaction and missteps on food chemicals and actively downplaying safety and effectiveness of vaccines – while the U.S. sees outbreaks of infectious diseases like measles.Here’s another grim milestone: Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin on January 30 reached the first-year…
- These Olympics are first to feature a ban on ‘forever chemicals’ in ski and snowboard waxThese Olympics are first to feature a ban on ‘forever chemicals’ in ski and snowboard wax Monica Amarelo February 12, 2026 For decades, elite skiers and snowboarders chased medals with the help of high-performance wax made with the toxic “forever chemicals” known as PFAS. Winter sports enthusiasts usually slicked fluorinated, or “fluoro,” wax on the bottom of their equipment. The wax gave athletes a powerful advantage, especially in wet snow, and delivered what some described as “ridiculous” speed, not to mention potential harm to people and the environment. Fluorine indicates the likely presence of PFAS. But that era is over.For the first time in…
- Transcript of EWG podcast 'Ken Cook Is Having Another Episode' – Episode 49Transcript of EWG podcast 'Ken Cook Is Having Another Episode' – Episode 49 JR Culpepper February 12, 2026 Something unprecedented just happened at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. A newly reconstituted advisory committee voted to recommend delaying hepatitis B vaccination for most babies. The vote overturns a 30-year policy that led to a massive decline in infant infections.In today’s episode, Ken talks with former CDC Director of the National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases Dr. Demetre Daskalakis. Daskalakis spent decades fighting on the front lines of America’s toughest public health battles. He brought HIV testing to the…
- EWG testimony before the West Virginia Senate Health and Human Resources Committee on SB 745, to ban a long list of additives from being served at schoolsEWG testimony before the West Virginia Senate Health and Human Resources Committee on SB 745, to ban a long list of additives from being served at schools Iris Myers February 11, 2026 Good morning. My name is Scott Faber and I am a professor of food law at Georgetown University Law Center. While the USDA administers our school food programs, the FDA reviews the safety of food additives and substances added to school foods on their behalf. Unfortunately, many of the food chemicals addressed by SB 745 have never been reviewed for safety by the FDA for many decades, including BHA, BHT, sodium…
- Nearly three-quarters of U.S. baby foods are ultra-processed, new study findsNearly three-quarters of U.S. baby foods are ultra-processed, new study finds Iris Myers February 10, 2026 Most baby food sold in U.S. grocery stores is ultra-processed, a new study finds, raising fresh concerns about what many infants and toddlers are eating during a critical window of development.The peer-reviewed study, published in the journal Nutrients, found that 71% of baby food products sold in grocery stores are classified as ultra-processed foods, or UPF.Researchers analyzed 651 infant and toddler food products available in the top 10 U.S. grocery retailers, using data from the Australia-based George Institute for Global Health’s FoodSwitch database. The study used the NOVA classification system,…
- Statement on FDA request for information on food additive BHAStatement on FDA request for information on food additive BHA Iris Myers February 10, 2026 WASHINGTON – Today the Food and Drug Administration issued a “request for information” about the food chemical preservative butylated hydroxyanisole, or BHA. Studies show BHA may cause cancer in rats, mice, fish and hamsters exposed to it through what they eat. BHA has been listed as a known carcinogen under California’s Proposition 65 since 1990. The National Toxicology Program in 1991 classified it as “reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen.”In 1990, a doctor petitioned the FDA to ban the chemical from food, but the FDA has not yet…
- New York state lawmakers introduce bill to ban the herbicide paraquat, linked to Parkinson’s diseaseNew York state lawmakers introduce bill to ban the herbicide paraquat, linked to Parkinson’s disease Anthony Lacey February 10, 2026 ALBANY, N.Y. – Lawmakers today introduced legislation to ban the use of paraquat, one of the most toxic herbicides allowed for use in the U.S. The lawmakers cited overwhelming scientific evidence linking the agrochemical to Parkinson’s disease and other serious health harms.The bill, A. 10074/S. 9094, would amend the state’s environmental conservation law, banning all uses of paraquat statewide. If enacted, this change would bring New York in line with more than 70 countries that have already outlawed the pesticide, including China, Brazil…
- Chef Johanna Hellrigl joins EWG board of directorsChef Johanna Hellrigl joins EWG board of directors Anthony Lacey February 10, 2026 WASHINGTON – Today the Environmental Working Group announced that Johanna Hellrigl, acclaimed chef-owner of the Washington, D.C., celebrated restaurant Ama and a 2026 James Beard Award semifinalist, has joined its board of directors. A longtime supporter of EWG’s work, Hellrigl brings her nationally recognized leadership in food, public health and sustainability to EWG.Hellrigl is the visionary behind Ama, a mission-driven Northern Italian restaurant located just blocks from the U.S. Capitol. Ama, which means “love,” has earned recognition for both culinary excellence and environmental leadership. Hellrigl uses EWG’s science-based research, including the Dirty Dozen™ and Clean Fifteen™ lists…
- Valentine’s Day: Showing love for you or another with the perfect fragrance giftValentine’s Day: Showing love for you or another with the perfect fragrance gift Anthony Lacey February 5, 2026 Fragrance is a longtime favorite Valentine’s Day gift, and for good reason: Some pleasing smells can trigger the release of dopamine and serotonin, contributing to feelings of happiness and well-being. Choosing a fragrance isn’t just about how it smells, but also about what is actually in the bottle. Some can contain chemicals of concern, but knowing which ingredients to avoid can help you make a safer choice.The association between February 14 and love reaches back to an ancient Roman fertility festival. It intensified…
- Kennedy’s FDA retreats from pledge to ban artificial food dyesKennedy’s FDA retreats from pledge to ban artificial food dyes Anthony Lacey February 5, 2026 WASHINGTON – Despite repeated pledges to crack down on artificial food dyes, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. today announced that the Food and Drug Administration will ease enforcement of federal food additive rules.The move will make it easier for food manufacturers to claim their products are free of artificial dyes.The following is a statement from the Environmental Working Group's President and co-Founder Ken Cook: This latest retreat on synthetic food dye regulations is another broken promise from Secretary Kennedy and President Donald Trump. They…
- Pennsylvania lawmakers, health advocates rally at Capitol to ban toxic weedkiller paraquatPennsylvania lawmakers, health advocates rally at Capitol to ban toxic weedkiller paraquat Anthony Lacey February 5, 2026 HARRISBURG, Pa. – A bipartisan group of Pennsylvania lawmakers joined farmers and public health advocates at the Capitol this week to call for swift passage of House Bill 1135 and Senate Bill 1158. The legislation would prohibit the use of the highly toxic herbicide paraquat statewide and protect Pennsylvanians from future exposure to the chemical.The House bill, introduced last year by state Reps. Natalie Mihalek (R-Allegheny/Washington) and Melissa Shusterman (D-Chester County), would amend the Pennsylvania Pesticide Control Act of 1973 to ban all uses of paraquat across the commonwealth,…
- EWG comments on California DTSC's 2025 microplastics in consumer products researchEWG comments on California DTSC's 2025 microplastics in consumer products research rcoleman February 4, 2026 Attached are EWG’s comments in support of the California Department of Toxic Substances Control’s 2025 microplastics in consumer products research. File Download Document ewg-comments-to-ca-dtsc-on-microplastics-1-30-2026.pdf Areas of Focus Toxic Chemicals Nanomaterials Regional Issues California Authors Tasha Stoiber, Ph.D. Samantha Romanick, Ph.D. Bernadette Del Chiaro Susan Little January 30, 2026
- What’s in your protein powder? California moves to mandate heavy metal testingWhat’s in your protein powder? California moves to mandate heavy metal testing Anthony Lacey February 4, 2026 SACRAMENTO – Protein powders and shakes consumed daily by millions of Californians could soon face mandatory testing for toxic heavy metals under a first-in-the-nation bill introduced today. If enacted, the bill would require manufacturers to publicly disclose levels of lead, cadmium, mercury and arsenic in their products.Senate Bill 1033, authored by state Sen. Steve Padilla (D-San Diego) and co-sponsored by the Environmental Working Group and Consumer Reports, responds to mounting evidence that some protein products contain levels of heavy metals high enough to raise…
- ‘Forever chemicals’ in drinking water: How exposure can impact infant health‘Forever chemicals’ in drinking water: How exposure can impact infant health Anthony Lacey February 4, 2026 Exposure through drinking water to the toxic “forever chemicals” known as PFAS can harm infant health before birth, a recent study finds. The risks of exposure can include premature birth, low birth weight and even infant mortality. University of Arizona researchers found that babies born to people living downstream from a PFAS-contaminated site were far more likely to give birth before 28 weeks and give birth to infants weighing under 2 pounds, compared to people whose drinking water sources were upstream of the site.The research examined data…
- State bills show building momentum to ban toxic weedkiller paraquatState bills show building momentum to ban toxic weedkiller paraquat Anthony Lacey February 3, 2026 Nine states are weighing bills to prohibit use of the toxic weedkiller paraquat entirely or near public schools, signaling growing support for banning the chemical. Illinois, Missouri, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia and Utah are so far considering legislation to ban paraquat use in their state or near public schools. More states are expected to introduce paraquat ban bills in the coming weeks. Image At least 70 countries have banned paraquat because it threatens the health of people exposed to the chemical. Paraquat has been linked to Parkinson’s disease, non-Hodgkin lymphoma,…
- Bang for your buck: Lip glossBang for your buck: Lip gloss JR Culpepper February 2, 2026 .has--background.block-content--type-curated-block-list { padding-top: 3rem; padding-bottom: 3rem; } Finding a lip gloss that delivers the perfect glass-like finish shouldn't require a compromise on your health — or your budget.Whether you’re preparing for a date or just touching up your look, the right lip gloss will leave your lips looking refreshed, healthy and youthful. But crowded shelves and confusing ingredient labels can make finding the ideal product difficult. This winter, EWG is here to help. We combed through our Skin Deep® database to find options that are not only $22 or less…
- In virtual briefing, clean energy advocates highlight California’s ‘balcony solar’ bill to cut electric bills for millionsIn virtual briefing, clean energy advocates highlight California’s ‘balcony solar’ bill to cut electric bills for millions Iris Myers February 2, 2026 SACRAMENTO – State Sen. Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco) and clean energy advocates last week outlined how a bill he introduced would make it easier and more affordable for millions of Californians to lower their electricity bills by generating their own solar power.During a January 29 virtual press briefing, supporters of the bill, SB 868, explained how it would expand access to safe, plug-in solar systems, also known as “balcony solar.” If enacted, the legislation would cut unnecessary red tape and establish…
- Transcript of EWG podcast 'Ken Cook Is Having Another Episode' – Episode 48Transcript of EWG podcast 'Ken Cook Is Having Another Episode' – Episode 48 JR Culpepper January 29, 2026 Are you susceptible to cult-like thinking? According to author Jane Borden, everyone might be, especially Americans.In today’s episode, Borden talks with EWG President and co-Founder Ken Cook about how the Pilgrims and Puritans essentially founded America as a “high-control doomsday group” and that those patterns never went away.In her book, “Cults Like Us: Why Doomsday Thinking Drives America,” Borden identifies the warning signs: worship of a charismatic leader who can't be criticized, apocalyptic crisis narratives, conspiratorial thinking that explains away inconvenient facts,…
- How plugging into the sun could help Californians lower their energy billsHow plugging into the sun could help Californians lower their energy bills Anthony Lacey January 29, 2026 Californians, who face some of the highest electricity rates in the country, could get financial relief from something as simple as plugging a device into an outlet at home.Plug-in solar technologies, also known as balcony solar, are portable panels that simply plug into standard wall outlets in a house or apartment. These panels are small enough to attach to apartment balcony railings, sit on a patio or lean against a backyard fence. The electricity the panels generate from the sun instantly powers everyday essentials,…
- EWG statement on House lawmakers opposing limits on state, local pesticide safety policiesEWG statement on House lawmakers opposing limits on state, local pesticide safety policies Anthony Lacey January 28, 2026 WASHINGTON – A group of 137 House lawmakers is urging leaders in Congress and the House Agriculture Committee to reject any legislation that would limit longstanding state and local pesticide safety rules.The lawmakers, led by Reps. Jim McGovern (D-Mass.), Jamie Raskin (D-Md.), Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.) and Chellie Pingree (D-Maine), sent a letter on January 28 warning that any restriction on pesticide rules would block states’ laws, including those intended to warn parents and protect children at schools near where pesticides are sprayed.The letter…
- Virtual press briefing on California ‘balcony solar’ billVirtual press briefing on California ‘balcony solar’ bill JR Culpepper January 27, 2026 Update appendedSACRAMENTO — On January 29, supporters of California’s new “balcony solar” legislation, SB 868, will hold a virtual press briefing to explain how the bill would expand consumer access to plug-in solar systems by cutting red tape and setting safety standards.Also known as the Plug and Play Solar Act, the legislation is sponsored by the Environmental Working Group. The bill's author, Sen. Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco), will join the briefing, along with representatives from EWG and additional speakers.WHEN:Thursday, January 29, 202611 a.m. PSTWHO:California State Sen. Scott…
- EWG statement on EPA’s plan to end animal testingEWG statement on EPA’s plan to end animal testing Monica Amarelo January 23, 2026 WASHINGTON – On Thursday, the Environmental Protection Agency announced it is moving forward to end mammalian animal testing.The planned phaseout revives a policy proposed under the first Trump administration to eliminate the practice by 2035. The Biden administration removed formal phaseout deadlines, claiming testing science was not progressing fast enough to achieve the change.An end to animal testing is a worthy goal. But without a modern, rigorous regulatory framework, the EPA’s plan risks turning pregnant people, children and vulnerable communities into test subjects for the chemical…
- EWG testimony before the Vermont Senate Committee on Health and Welfare on S 26, to ban 6 food dyes from being served at schoolsEWG testimony before the Vermont Senate Committee on Health and Welfare on S 26, to ban 6 food dyes from being served at schools Iris Myers January 20, 2026 Good morning. My name is Scott Faber, and I am testifying this morning on behalf of the Environmental Working Group. I am also an Adjunct Professor of Food Law at Georgetown University Law Center. Before joining EWG, I was the vice president for government affairs for the Consumer Brands Association, the food industry’s trade association. I’d like to make five brief points. One, the overwhelming evidence shows that synthetic dyes hamper learning for some…
- House proposal would weaken EPA safeguards and fast-track toxic chemicals into American homes and workplacesHouse proposal would weaken EPA safeguards and fast-track toxic chemicals into American homes and workplaces JR Culpepper January 16, 2026 WASHINGTON – In a move that could dramatically increase Americans’ exposure to hazardous chemicals, House Republicans have released the unofficial draft of a bill that would weaken the country’s primary chemical safety law.House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Brett Guthrie (R-Ky.) and Environment Subcommittee Chairman Gary Palmer (R-Ala.) released the draft on Thursday. The proposal would force the Environmental Protection Agency to speed up the approval of new toxic chemicals and weaken safety requirements for approval, even when companies fail to provide…
- FDA reports over 50 PFAS ingredients intentionally added to 1,700 personal care productsFDA reports over 50 PFAS ingredients intentionally added to 1,700 personal care products Anthony Lacey January 15, 2026 Hundreds of personal care products people use every day may contain the toxic “forever chemicals” known as PFAS, according to a Food and Drug Administration report.As of 2024, more than 50 PFAS ingredients were used in almost 1,700 unique products, the report finds. The ingredients are added to cosmetics with claims of improving product texture, durability and water resistance and enhancing skin-smoothing or shine effects. The report shows many Americans could be applying products with PFAS ingredients to their face, eyes and skin daily, sometimes…
- Sharp rise in livestock antibiotic use threatens life-saving medicationsSharp rise in livestock antibiotic use threatens life-saving medications Anthony Lacey January 13, 2026 The sale of medically important antibiotics for use in livestock surged in 2024, raising serious concerns about overuse of these medications worsening drug resistance.Antibiotics are classified as medically important if they’re essential for treating infections in people. Human antibiotic-resistant infections already cause an estimated 2.8 million illnesses and 35,000 deaths a year in the U.S alone. Globally they’re projected to cause 10 million deaths a year by 2050. The excessive use of antibiotics in factory-farmed animals can spur the development of drug-resistant bacteria, making life-saving medicines less effective for…
- California senator introduces 'balcony solar' bill to lower energy bills for millions of householdsCalifornia senator introduces 'balcony solar' bill to lower energy bills for millions of households Anthony Lacey January 7, 2026 Update appendedSACRAMENTO – A bill introduced Monday in the California Senate offers a practical, affordable and clean path to relief from historically high electricity prices that hurt middle- and working-class households. Senate Bill 868 would eliminate red tape and set statewide safety standards for portable solar photovoltaic energy devices, often called “balcony solar” or “plug-in PV.” Reducing these barriers would enable budget-conscious households to generate their own clean power and cut electricity costs with simple plug-and-play solar technologies that work for all households,…
- EWG statement on Indiana bill to ban 13 harmful chemicals from school foodEWG statement on Indiana bill to ban 13 harmful chemicals from school food Iris Myers January 7, 2026 INDIANAPOLIS – On Jan. 22, the Indiana House passed a bill, introduced by Indiana Rep. Julie McGuire (R-District 93), to protect school children in the state from harmful food chemicals. If enacted, HB 1137 would ban Indiana public schools from serving food containing thirteen additives: azodicarbonamide, butylated hydroxytoluene, potassium bromate, propyl paraben, tert-butylhydroquinone, titanium dioxide, Blue Dye No. 1, Blue 2, Green Dye No. 3, Red Dye No. 3, Red 40, Yellow Dye No. 5 or Yellow 6.All 13 chemicals listed in the bill are linked to health harms, such as neurobehavioral problems…
- EWG statement on new federal dietary guidelinesEWG statement on new federal dietary guidelines Iris Myers January 7, 2026 WASHINGTON – Today the federal government published new dietary guidelines that urge Americans to pump the brakes on eating highly processed foods – often called ultra-processed food, or UPF.Research continues to show that diets high in UPF are linked to increased risk of developing chronic illnesses like Type 2 diabetes, depression, and heart, kidney and gastrointestinal diseases.The following is a statement from Sarah Reinhardt, Environmental Working Group dietitian and senior strategic campaign director for food systems: When it comes to ultra-processed food, the guidelines point us in the right direction. We…
- EWG testimony before the Indiana House Committee on Education on HB 1137, to ban 13 harmful food chemicals from being served at schoolsEWG testimony before the Indiana House Committee on Education on HB 1137, to ban 13 harmful food chemicals from being served at schools Iris Myers January 6, 2026 Good morning. My name is Scott Faber and I am testifying this morning on behalf of the Environmental Working Group. I am also an adjunct professor of food law at Georgetown University Law Center. Before joining EWG, I was the vice president for government affairs for the Consumer Brands Association, the food industry’s trade association. I’d like to make five points. One, the overwhelming evidence shows that synthetic dyes make it harder for…
- Transcript of EWG podcast 'Ken Cook Is Having Another Episode'- Episode 47Transcript of EWG podcast 'Ken Cook Is Having Another Episode'- Episode 47 JR Culpepper December 22, 2025 The longest U.S. government shutdown in history just ended and millions of Americans are about to pay for it. Health insurance premiums are set to double, SNAP food benefits were frozen for 42 million people and Democrats caved without securing protections for either.In today’s episode, Ken sits down with Liz Hamel, vice president and director of public opinion and survey research at health policy research organization KFF, about her groundbreaking research on the Make America Healthy Again, or MAHA, movement.A Washington Post/KFF poll…
- FDA finds toxic ‘forever chemicals’ in food but still won’t set enforceable limitsFDA finds toxic ‘forever chemicals’ in food but still won’t set enforceable limits Iris Myers December 19, 2025 WASHINGTON – Today the Food and Drug Administration announced additional testing data about detections in food of the “forever chemicals” known as PFAS. The findings underscore the urgent need for enforceable limits on PFAS in food, not just continued monitoring.The data was collected through the FDA’s Total Diet Study.The FDA reported that trace and quantifiable PFAS detections were found in seafood, meat, dairy products and vegetables. The list of foods includes shrimp, clams, catfish, tilapia, beef, chicken, milk and kale. Although the agency emphasized that most…