The study was carried out by the parliament’s Scientific Foresight Unit, led by the Swedish University of Agricultural Scientists.

“At least 100 different pesticides are known to cause adverse neurological effects in adults, and all of these substances must therefore be suspected of being capable of damaging developing brains as well,” the report states.

“Such adverse effects are likely to be lasting and one main outcome is cognitive deficits, often expressed in terms of losses of IQ points. The combined evidence suggests that current exposures to certain pesticides in the EU may cost at least € 125 billion per year, as calculated from the loss of lifetime income due to the lower IQs associated with prenatal exposure.”

It goes on to describe the calculation as “almost certainly" an underestimate as it does not consider the possible contribution made by pesticides to conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, diabetes and certain types of cancer.

The researchers recommend limiting exposure to non-organic fruit and vegetables - and say particular care should be taken by pregnant women and children.