In the Bohemian Forest National Park of Czechia, wild boars live but are exposed to harmful chemical contaminants. Researchers from the James Hutton Institute in Scotland and University of Graz in Austria analyzed internal organs of 30 culled boars and found high levels of PFAS, or “forever chemicals.” Boars were targeted due to their consumption of various food sources.
The discovery is concerning as these chemicals pose risks for humans and the environment, including reproductive issues, certain cancers, developmental delays, cholesterol problems, hormone interference, liver damage, and more. Viktoria Muller, a team member, stated that since wild boar meat and offal are consumed by humans, this finding warrants further investigation.
The presence of PFAS in surprising locations, like England’s otters and Austria’s ski slopes, is not uncommon, as they have been used in consumer products and may take thousands of years to decompose.
Unexpectedly high levels found in the park suggest more research is required. To reduce PFAS exposure, consumers can opt for homegrown foods, avoid plastic goods, and use natural cleaning supplies instead of chemicals. Companies responsible for manufacturing these chemicals need pressure to cease production as public awareness increases.
Source: https://www.thecooldown.com/outdoors/bohemian-forest-national-park-pfas-boars/