PFAS occurrence in food in Luxembourg (2022–2024) and dietary exposure

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are persistent environmental pollutants linked to various health risks. This study assessed PFAS contamination in commonly consumed food items in Luxembourg and evaluated potential dietary exposure. Between 2022 and 2024, a number of 204 samples of animal- and non-animal origin were analysed. At least one regulated PFAS compound was quantified in 48 samples (23%). Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulphonic acid (PFOS) were the most frequently quantified compounds, found in 34 and 25 samples, respectively. The highest levels occurred in wild boar (1.14 µg/kg) and egg samples (0.21 µg/kg), while plant-based foods showed generally lower levels. Two samples (plums and potatoes) exceeded the indicative PFOA level of 0.01 µg/kg outlined in Commission Recommendation (EU) 2022/1431. PFAS intake from analysed commodities did not indicate a health risk for the general population, though hunters and frequent game (especially boar) consumers may experience elevated exposure.