Per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) accumulation in supply chains: From contaminated agricultural inputs to animal derived foods
By E. D. N. S. Abeyrathne, and M. H. U. Maggonage
J. Agric. Value Addit.
June 26, 2026
DOI: 10.4038/java.v9i1.187
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large group of synthetic fluorinated chemicals. They are widely used in industrial applications due to their thermal stability, hydrophobicity, and resistance to degradation. However, due to their extreme environmental persistence, bioaccumulative potential, and widespread occurrence in the environment, concerns have been raised at the global level. This review summarizes current knowledge on PFAS occurrence and transfer within the food supply chain, along with emphasis on their presence in agricultural inputs such as wastewater, sewage sludge, irrigation water, pesticides, and livestock feed. The transport of PFAS from the environment into crops, animal-derived foods, and aquatic systems is highlighted. Studies indicate that food consumption remains a major route of PFAS exposure. Perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS), perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFHxS) were identified as key compounds and are associated with various adverse health outcomes, metabolic disruption, and potential of cancers. Hence as a response, international and regional regulatory frameworks including Stockholm Convention, European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) guidance, the REACH (EU regulation governing the manufacture and import of chemical substances) and the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), have increasingly restricted PFAS use. Overall, this review emphasizes the urgent need for improved monitoring and the development of safer alternatives to reduce PFAS contamination in food systems.
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