Tissue-specific distribution and fatty acid content of PFAS in the northern Bohai Sea fish: Risk-benefit assessment of legacy PFAS and emerging alternatives.

This study aimed to examine the distribution of poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in 15 marine fish species from the northern Bohai Sea, investigate their sources of contamination, and evaluate the benefits-risks associated with the concurrent consumption of fish fatty acids and PFAS. The ∑PFAS concentrations in fish ranged from 9.38 to 262.92 ng·g (dry weight). The highest PFAS levels were found in the viscera and gills, while the lowest levels were found in the muscles. Industrial effluents and sewage treatment plant discharges were the primary sources of PFAS contamination. The individual PFAS concentrations in fish were insignificantly correlated with their trophic levels (p > 0.05). However, the concentrations of hexafluoropropylene oxide dimer acid (HFPO-DA) or long-chain PFAS (C > 8) significantly increased with fish size (e.g., total length, weight) and lipid content (p < 0.001). The benefit-risk analysis suggests that HPFO-DA poses a higher health risk than perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) in fish (p < 0.05). Long-term consumption of contaminated fish may significantly increase human serum PFOA concentration and kidney cancer risk (p < 0.05). Daily consumption of 5 g (wet weight) muscle from Ditrema temmincki and Konosirus punctatus is recommended to meet the requirements for fatty acid supplementation without posing health risks.