PCB pollutants: reduce consumption of some freshwater fish

The accumulation of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in some freshwater fish exposes consumers to these organic pollutants, which are known to have a variety of harmful effects on health. A study conducted in anglers and consumers of freshwater fish in France confirmed that people who eat these fish can have blood PCB levels that exceed the critical concentration thresholds below which health risks are regarded as negligible. The French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety (Anses) has recommended limiting consumption of the types of fish that sometimes accumulate high levels of PCBs. This applies particularly to women of child-bearing age, girls not yet of child-bearing age, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and children under the age of 3 years. The fish concerned are eel, barbel, bream, carp and catfish. In 2013, the French agency for food published a summary of its recommendations regarding the consumption of fishery products for various populations, particularly for pregnant or breastfeeding women, and children under the age of 3 years.