Environmental and human exposure to hexachlorobenzene in the Netherlands

Hexachlorobenzene (HCB) has been found in clearly detectable concentrations in surface waters, sediments, fish, products of animal origin, animal feed, human tissues, human milk and certain pesticide formulations. To a minor extent, crops cultivated on HCB-contaminated soils can also contain HCB. The average daily intake of HCB in 1976-1978, estimated from a total-diet study, was 1 microgram/person (maximum value: 12 micrograms/person). Since the early 1970s many measures have been taken to minimize both environmental and human exposure to HCB. As a result, substantial decreases in HCB levels in all compartments have been achieved.