The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a warning on Tuesday regarding the potential health risks posed by chemicals found in sewage sludge used by some farmers as fertilizer. The EPA highlighted that exposure to food from farms utilizing sewage sludge could increase the risk of developing cancer and other health conditions.
The specific chemicals of concern, perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), belong to a class of per- and polyfluoroalkyl compounds (PFAS) known as 'forever chemicals' due to their persistence in the environment and the human body.
Individuals at higher risk include those consuming fish from contaminated water bodies or dairy and meat products from animals raised on pastures treated with sewage sludge. The EPA emphasized that while the general food supply is not at risk, certain populations may be more vulnerable to exposure.
Although the manufacturing of these chemicals has been phased out, they are still present in various household items and drinking water systems, affecting a significant portion of the population. The EPA's draft risk assessment highlighted the need for regulatory measures to address the contamination.
While the EPA does not currently set limits on acceptable levels of PFAS in food, federal agencies conduct testing to monitor their presence. The report also pointed out gaps in government testing, with some independent organizations detecting forever chemicals in food products.
The EPA stressed the importance of addressing the issue at its source to prevent further contamination. Recommendations included removing PFAS from consumer products and implementing stricter regulations on industrial pollution.
States like Maine have taken steps to ban the use of sewage sludge on farms, highlighting the need for both federal and state efforts to mitigate the risks associated with these chemicals.
The EPA's draft assessment will be open for public comment for 60 days, aiming to inform future actions by government agencies and stakeholders to protect public health while ensuring the sustainability of agriculture.
Acting EPA Administrator Jane Nishida emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts to address PFAS exposure and safeguard the well-being of the population.
