An investigation by Consumer Reports has revealed that perchlorate, a chemical used in rocket fuel and fireworks, is found in a significant portion of American food products, particularly those for children, with 67% of tested samples containing measurable levels. The testing covered 196 samples from 63 grocery items and 10 fast food products, showing perchlorate levels ranging from just over 2 parts per billion (ppb) to 79 ppb, with baby foods averaging 19.4 ppb. While none of the foods contained acutely dangerous levels, the cumulative exposure from multiple servings raises concerns, especially for children due to their lower body weight. The chemical is known to disrupt thyroid function and can impede iodine absorption, leading to metabolic disorders and potential neurological damage in fetuses. The EPA has set a reference dose for perchlorate exposure, yet Consumer Reports emphasizes that many consumers exceed recommended servings. The findings highlight ongoing regulatory gaps and call for increased scrutiny of food safety.