PFAS Chemicals Found at Record Levels in Migratory Birds
May 1, 2025
A recent study by scientists at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) has revealed alarmingly high levels of toxic PFAS chemicals—often called "forever chemicals"—in migratory birds and their food sources. Using a more advanced detection method, researchers found that PFAS contamination is significantly more widespread and severe than previously understood. These findings highlight the silent but extensive spread of these persistent pollutants across ecosystems, with potentially serious implications for both wildlife and human health.
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are synthetic chemicals commonly used in everyday products like non-stick cookware, water-resistant fabrics, and fire retardants. Known for their resistance to breaking down, PFAS accumulate over time in the environment and living organisms. The study used a method called the Total Oxidizable Precursor (TOP) assay, which detects previously hidden PFAS compounds. As a result, researchers discovered that bird livers along the East Asian–Australasian Flyway contained up to 180 times more PFAS than earlier estimates, pointing to a major underestimation of environmental contamination in past studies.
This research also traced high PFAS levels in shellfish from coastal China, a key feeding area for these birds—raising concerns about contamination climbing the food chain to humans. The findings stress the urgent need for stricter global regulations and more comprehensive monitoring of PFAS chemicals. As detection methods improve, it becomes increasingly clear that the scope and threat of PFAS pollution are far greater than initially recognized, underscoring the importance of proactive environmental and public health measures.
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