Research project Research on PFAS contamination in the food chain

General introduction

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are used worldwide in a variety of applications such as textiles, packaging materials and fire-fighting foams. Due to their persistence and bioaccumulation, PFAS pose a risk to food safety as they also end up in animal and plant food products. The PFASFORWARD project investigates through which pathways PFAS end up in the food and feed chain, and how processing affects distribution and exposure.

Research approach

The project focuses on the PFAS compounds from Commission Recommendation (EU) 2022/1431. Optimized LC-MS analyses are performed for selected food products to quantify the presence of these substances. In addition, other fluorinated contaminants are detected by non-targeted analytical methods. The study maps the distribution of PFAS within plants and animals, as well as the effect of processing (such as fractionation or product composition) on exposure. In addition to laboratory studies, literature data, simulations and field data are used to identify the major contaminant sources and pathways (such as compost, sewage sludge, irrigation water, source water, soil, animal feed and feed materials).

Relevance/Valorization

Parts of the European population exceeded the acceptable weekly intake of 4.4 nanograms per kg body weight per week for the sum of 4 PFAS compounds (PFOS, PFOA, PFNA and PFHxS) as established by EFSA. Due to their high chemical diversity and varying behavior in different matrices, more data on transmission and accumulation in the food chain are urgently needed. PFASFORWARD contributes to this and aligns with the recommendations of the European Commission. The results support policy makers and competent authorities in taking action to better monitor consumer food safety.

Financing

FOD Volksgezondheid, Veiligheid van de voedselketen en Leefmilieu