A Comprehensive Review of PFAS and Their Prevalence in Fish
Baran, Christopher
Baran, Christopher
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Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as forever chemicals, are a diverse and persistent group of synthetic chemicals that pose numerous threats to human and environmental health. In addition to their presence in many household products, consumption of fish can be a significant source of human exposure to PFAS, especially for populations who heavily rely on fishing for food. This literature review synthesizes the rapidly growing research on the physical, biological, and ecological factors that influence PFAS in various fish. Studies consistently demonstrate that PFAS mostly enter aquatic systems through and are in highest concentration around point sources such as industrial facilities, landfills, airports, military bases, and any site that utilizes aqueous fire-fighting foam. Once in water, species at higher trophic levels tend to have greater concentrations, but this pattern varies across systems and species. Evidence also indicates that PFAS compounds tend to accumulate highest in protein-rich organs like the liver, as well as the blood and plasma, which means exposure risk from fish consumption is higher when preparation includes organs or the whole fish. Because no national fish advisory currently exists in the U.S., local advisories can be limited or nonexistent, leading to environmental injustice concerns for immigrants and refugees who rely on fishing for a major part of their diet. By synthesizing current knowledge about patterns of PFAS accumulation in fish, this study will help inform the future creation of a PFAS-specific fish advisory in Vermont.
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Date
1/1/2026
Student Status
Junior (Graduating in 2027)
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Poster
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Biology
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College of Arts and Sciences
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Life Science