FDA investigates ‘forever chemicals’ in seafood

The FDA is launching an investigation into the presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as “forever chemicals,” in seafood.

This initiative, which aims to assess the risks associated with PFAS contamination in the seafood supply, is part of a broader interagency effort to understand and mitigate PFAS exposure across different food sources. The agency is particularly interested in gathering data on its concentrations in various seafoods, the surrounding environment and processing water.

Previous FDA studies suggest seafood may contain higher levels of PFAS compared to other foods. The FDA is seeking information from seafood industry stakeholders, researchers and other government agencies to identify exposure routes, understand health risks and minimize dietary exposure to these harmful substances.