POPULAR BBC show Countryfile received backlash on Sunday after a segment left viewers feeling frustrated and disengaged.
What was intended to be an informative investigation into the presence of potentially harmful chemicals in everyday foods ended up sparking a backlash, with many fans branding the segment a “waste of 10 minutes.”
The episode saw presenters Sean Fletcher and Tom Heap returning to screens with a focus on two different topics.
Sean delved into the efforts to protect the Borrowdale Rainforest National Nature Reserve.
However, it was Tom’s investigation into “forever chemicals” in food that really got viewers talking.
Tom’s segment aimed to uncover the extent to which toxic chemicals have made their way into our food supply – through household items like non-stick pans and cosmetics.
During this process, he revealed that even staples such as strawberries, tomatoes and bread contain traces of perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).
PFAS are chemicals which are linked to various health concerns.
Despite the seriousness of the issue, the segment seemed to miss the mark with many viewers.
As Tom presented his findings, social media was quickly flooded with complaints from disgruntled viewers.
One took to X to express their disappointment, writing, “So a waste of 10 minutes for Tom to tell us that there are small amounts (traces) of forever chemicals #Countryfile.”
Another echoed the sentiment, questioning the relevance of the investigation in light of more pressing issues like population growth and food affordability.
One commenter sarcastically suggested, “Think we’ll just have to stop eating altogether to be safe.”
Someone else bemoaned the show’s overall tone, labeling it a “totally joyless programme.”
