The facts: Peracetic acid poultry wash is banned in 1 country/region (including European Union), though the FDA still allows it in the US. We can't tell you whether it's safe for your pregnancy — that's a conversation for your OB-GYN or midwife. What we can do is show you the regulatory facts and flag Peracetic acid poultry wash on any product's label so you can decide with your provider. Commonly found in: chicken, fresh-cut produce.
TL;DR: Peracetic acid poultry wash is banned in the EU and allowed in the US. Here's what to know if you're pregnant.
| EU status | Banned |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level (regulatory) | high |
| Where it shows up | chicken, fresh-cut produce |
Peracetic acid poultry wash is an antimicrobial chemical wash applied to US poultry and produce.
It is used to bleach, preserve, color or process food more cheaply at industrial scale.
Not permitted as a carcass decontaminant in the EU.
For educational use only. This page summarizes the regulatory status of Peracetic acid poultry wash with citations to the primary sources below. It is not medical advice and is not pregnancy-specific medical guidance. Consult your OB-GYN or midwife for decisions about your pregnancy.
Yes. Peracetic acid poultry wash is banned in European Union. The FDA still allows it in the US.
That's a decision for you and your OB-GYN or midwife — we don't give medical advice. What we can tell you is the regulatory status above. Many people choose to limit additives during pregnancy out of caution; bring this page and its sources to your next appointment.
Commonly found in chicken, fresh-cut produce. Scan any product's barcode to check its label for Peracetic acid poultry wash.
Choose minimally processed and EU-imported foods, read labels for these additives, and scan barcodes with BannedPantry to flag them. See the pregnancy-conscious swaps below.
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