State issues new warning about eating fish from some Minnesota lakes, rivers
The Minnesota Department of Health has updated its advice on how much fish is safe to eat from certain lakes with PFAS exposure.
The chemical has been found in fish from some bodies of water in 10 Minnesota counties: Anoka, Carver, Dakota, Douglas, Hennepin, Martin, McLeod, Ramsey, St. Louis and Washington.
PFAS, otherwise referred to as "forever chemicals" and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are harmful chemicals that have been widely used for decades to make products that resist heat, oil, stains, grease and water.
The chemical can accumulate in a person's body over time and may become a health concern, according to MDH. They are linked to developmental effects, including low birth weight in infants and a weaker immune system in children. Exposure to the "forever chemicals" may also cause changes in liver function and increase cancer risks.
According to the new guidance by MDH, fish no one should eat include:
All species of fish caught in Minnesota River Valley ponds and Long Meadow Lake (Hennepin County).
Bass caught in Mooney Lake (Hennepin County).
Walleye caught in George Lake (Martin County).
Yellow perch and common carp caught in Otter Lake, McCuen Creek, Bear Creek and the south fork of the Crow River (McLeod and Carver counties).
For some lakes, MDH officials advise to avoid eating all or certain types of fish. Specifically for other lakes, health officials advise that sensitive groups limit how many serving they consume of some species, such as pregnant women or children under the age of 15.
The updated guidelines are based on new data analysis, according to MDH's fish consumption guidance program lead, Angela Preimesberger.
'Our fish consumption guidance can help anglers and their families make informed choices about which fish to eat and how often,' Preimesberger said. 'Following the guidance enables you to reduce your exposure to contaminants while still enjoying the many benefits of eating fish, which is an important part of a healthy, well-balanced diet.'
MDH works with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) to select lakes and rivers to monitor for contaminants. Since 1974, MDH has used data from these monitoring activities to advise anglers on fish consumption when levels of mercury or polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) may be unsafe for human consumption.
The Fish Contaminant Monitoring Program added PFAS i 2004, according to MDH.
Fish consumption guidance is based on the following:
Where you caught the fish: Some bodies of water have lower levels of PFAS and other contaminants than others.
Who you are: Some people are more sensitive than others to negative health effects from exposure to PFAS. The most sensitive groups include people who are or could become pregnant, those who are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed, and children who are under the age of 15 years old.
The species of fish: The maximum number of servings recommended per week or month may vary among fish species caught in the same body of water.
You can keep track of MDH's fish consumption guidance as it updates on the DNR's LakeFinder or MDH's Fish Consumption Guidance webpage.
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