‘Concerning’ levels of forever chemicals found in UK fish

Flounder, dab and plaice have been found to contain highly-persistent industrial pollutants.

One environmental scientist said people should not eat fish caught in the River Thames on a regular basis (Andrew Milligan/PA) (PA Wire)

Testing of “forever chemicals” in England’s wild fish has found high levels of an industrial pollutant that if eaten more than twice a year would exceed recommended EU safety guidelines.

Per and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a class of nearly 10,000 chemicals that are used in many household goods such as non-stick cookware, waterproof fabrics, personal care products and stain-proof coatings on carpets.

Two particular types, PFOS and PFOA, build up in humans and have been linked to health problems including cancer, liver damage, decreased fertility and increased risk of asthma and thyroid disease.