Environment Chemical PFAS in fish from waters in the Basel region

The two Basel authorities have found high levels of harmful perfluorinated and polyfluorinated alkyl compounds (PFAS) in fish from waters in the region. Recreational anglers are therefore advised to eat fish they have caught themselves no more than once a month.

The health departments of the two cantons announced on Tuesday that brown trout, barbel and alete were caught in Basel and Basel waters for the study. The results have now shown that the maximum PFAS content has been exceeded in some cases.

According to the communiqué, PFAS can reduce the effectiveness of vaccinations and have negative effects on the human liver, kidneys or the birth weight of newborns. To minimize potential health and environmental risks, the use of numerous PFAS in various industrial processes and products such as textiles, electronic devices and paints has already been banned. Further bans are planned.

Recreational anglers are advised not to eat fish they have caught themselves more than once a month. However, food law measures could not be taken as the fish were not sold. All commercially distributed native fish tested, including those from fish farms, complied with the legal requirements.

SDA