Analysis of PFAS in brown shrimp

General introduction

A marine chemical monitoring campaign that ended in 2024, focusing on PFAS compounds in non-commercial samples of North Sea shrimp from Belgian and Zeeland coastal waters, provides new insights. Concentrations exceeding PFAS food safety standards were measured at some sites. Concentrations of PFAS compounds were found to vary widely by site, with increasing levels of contamination from west to east. The highest values were measured in samples from Dutch waters, near the mouth of the Western Scheldt. Lower contamination levels are observed in samples from zones towards the Panne as well as beyond the 3-mile zone. There are indications that the general PFAS contamination level in the North Sea shrimp has decreased in the last two decades, perhaps as a result of stricter legislation.

Research approach

Along the entire Belgian coast, shrimp samples were collected to gain a better understanding of the extent of PFA contamination. In the spring, an initial assessment was conducted by collecting samples from six different locations (three onshore, three offshore). Based on these results, which indicated an increased risk of PFAS contamination towards the Zeebrugge-Knokke area, a second, more extensive research plan was developed. During the summer months, 12 locations in Belgian (9) and Dutch (3) coastal waters were sampled using the research vessel Simon Stevin. In the autumn, 10 onshore locations were sampled manually in the surf zone. Each time, approximately 600g of North Sea shrimp was collected to obtain a peeled weight of around 200g. These peeled shrimp samples were delivered (chilled) to Eurofins, where they were further distributed for analysis. The samples were analyzed under accreditation for the possible presence of 22 perfluorinated compounds. 

Relevance/Valorisation

It is useful to detect the presence of perfluorinated compounds in a timely manner, given the potential harmful impact on ecosystems and human health. This is what happened in this case. After an initial analysis from the FASFC, PFAS compounds were detected in all 10 samples taken. 9 of the 10 samples did remain compliant with EU standards. In one sample the concentration of PFOS as well as the sum of the 4 PFAS was above the EU standard. With the 10 samples, the spatial distribution and the exact location of contamination could still not be sufficiently identified. Subsequently, the measurement campaign as described in this research project was carried out. The final report is publicly available via the ILVO website.
The gradual decrease in PFAS concentrations found over time can be explained by policy decisions. In 2000, 3M announced the phase-out of PFOS, a measure that was later followed by stricter legislation on PFAS.
The researchers recommend that commissioning authorities restrict commercial fishing activities in the Westerschelde estuary to ensure safety standards are maintained. The researchers also advocate further monitoring.