A study led by Dartmouth researchers suggests that people who frequently consume seafood may face an increased risk of exposure to PFAS, a family of human-made toxins known as “forever chemicals.” The findings point to the need for stricter public health guidelines to limit exposure to these substances, especially in coastal regions like New England. While seafood is a valuable source of nutrition, it may also be an underestimated source of PFAS exposure.
National data show that New Hampshire, along with all of New England, is among the top consumers of seafood in the United States, making it an ideal location for studying PFAS exposure through fish and shellfish. The study paired an analysis of PFAS concentrations in fresh seafood with a survey of eating habits in the state. Most existing research has focused on PFAS levels in freshwater species, overlooking the potential risks associated with seafood consumption, particularly in regions where seafood is a staple of the diet.
PFAS are associated with various health issues, including cancer, fetal abnormalities, high cholesterol, and thyroid disorders. These chemicals are pervasive in the environment due to their molecular stability, making them nearly indestructible. The researchers measured 26 varieties of PFAS in commonly consumed marine species, finding that shrimp and lobster had the highest concentrations. Understanding how PFAS enter the marine food chain is challenging due to their ubiquitous presence in the environment.
A survey of New Hampshire residents revealed that seafood consumption is significantly higher than the national average, with men and women consuming more than twice the national average. Children in the state also consume seafood at higher rates than the national average. Notably, people in New Hampshire who reported lower household incomes tended to eat seafood more frequently than those with higher incomes. Shrimp, haddock, and salmon were among the most commonly consumed species by adults in the state.
While federal guidelines exist for safe seafood consumption in relation to mercury and other contaminants, there are currently no guidelines for PFAS. Establishing safety guidelines for PFAS exposure would help protect vulnerable populations, such as pregnant individuals and children. The study highlights the importance of balancing the health benefits of seafood with the potential risks of PFAS exposure, particularly for those who consume seafood regularly.
The researchers emphasize the need for more research and public health initiatives to address the risks associated with PFAS exposure through seafood consumption. By providing consumers with clear guidelines on safe seafood consumption, especially in regions where seafood is a dietary staple, policymakers can help mitigate the health risks posed by these persistent chemicals. Further studies on how PFAS accumulate in aquatic food webs will be crucial in developing effective strategies to protect public health.
