Swedish Potato Fungicide Under Fire: Researchers Warn of Risks to Brain Development

A widely used fungicide applied to Swedish potato crops may pose a risk to brain development, according to a new analysis by researchers at Stockholm University . The substance, fluazinam, is used to prevent late blight and received EU approval in 2008. However, scientists who re-examined raw data from a 2005 rat study commissioned by the manufacturer found six instances of what they describe as misreporting that led to incorrect conclusions . Their re-analysis indicates that exposure to fluazinam affected the brains of rats, resulting in reduced brain weight and width . The researchers argue that the substance should never have been approved in 2008 and that it is unlikely to receive renewed authorization . The fungicide’s use in Sweden has increased dramatically, from just over one ton in 2020 to nearly 13 tons in 2025 .

While consumers are exposed to very small amounts of the substance through food, researchers are particularly concerned about children living near treated fields . The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has been informed of the analysis and will reassess the rat study before a decision on fluazinam is made in 2027 . Meanwhile, the Swedish Chemicals Agency is already reviewing fluazinam because it breaks down into a PFAS-related substance, TFA, which can contaminate groundwater . The fungicide has already been banned in Denmark . The manufacturer, ISK Biosciences, states it is aware of the claims but trusts the established regulatory processes . Potato growers have expressed concern, noting that if fluazinam were withdrawn, it could lead to significant yield and quality losses, though they also emphasize that safety concerns must be thoroughly investigated .