Maine Expands Fish Consumption Advisories Due to PFAS

The Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC) has expanded fish consumption advisories based on the results of ongoing testing for per- and polyfluroalkyl substances (PFAS) in bodies of water across the state.

Testing of fish several locations found levels of PFAS exceeding Maine CDC's recommended levels for regular consumption. Additionally, elevated levels of perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS), a type of PFAS, were detected in fish tissue samples from several waterbodies. The Maine Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) collects and tests fish from certain waterbodies for PFAS because they are located where PFAS contamination has been found in groundwater, surface water, and/or soils.

Based on the results of those tests, the Maine CDC now recommends limiting consumption of all fish or certain fish from seven waterbodies of concern. A total of 16 waterbodies in Maine currently have a freshwater fish consumption advisory. All fish consumption advisories are listed on Maine CDC’s website.

Maine takes a proactive approach to PFAS contamination, boasting one of the nation’s earliest and strictest standards for PFAS in drinking water, as well as establishing screening levels for PFAS in soil, fish and game, milk, and beef.