• Some pet foods contain potentially harmful PFAS chemicalsCris Cantón/Getty Images Some pet foods contain potentially harmful PFAS chemicals Cris Cantón/Getty Images Many pet foods - especially those based on fish - have levels of so-called forever chemicals that exceed European health agency thresholds for humans. • The findings point to an urgent need for increased monitoring of contaminants in pet products and a better understanding of risks to companion animals, saysKei Nomiyamaat Ehime University in Japan. • Read moreOrigin story of domestic cats rewritten by genetic analysis Read more Origin story of domestic cats rewritten by genetic analysis “Our findings do not indicate an immediate health emergency, but they do highlight a knowledge gap,” he says. • “Pet owners who wish to reduce potential exposure may consider paying attention to ingredient composition and diversifying protein sources.” Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are artificial chemicals used in a wide range of products, which can persist in the environment for hundreds or thousands of years. • People who experience regular exposure to PFAS have increased risks of liver damage, certain cancers and otherhealth problems. • While research on their effects on pets remains limited, studies in cats have linked certain PFAS withdiseases of the liver, thyroid, kidneys and respiratory system.

Article Summaries:

  • A study by researchers at Ehime University found that many commercial pet foods, especially fish‑based varieties, contain perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) at concentrations that exceed European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) daily intake limits set for humans. The team tested 48 dog and 52 cat products sold in Japan (2018‑2020) and calculated PFAS intake per kilogram of body weight. Fish‑based cat foods and some grain‑based dog foods had the highest levels, while meat‑based products were generally lower. Although the findings do not signal an immediate health crisis, they highlight a knowledge gap and call for enhanced monitoring of contaminants in pet food.

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