Residents in close proximity to a chemical plant in Lancashire have been advised against consuming eggs produced at home due to elevated levels of a potentially carcinogenic substance.
This precaution stems from an investigation into historical contamination at the former ICI site, now operated by AGC Chemicals Europe Ltd, located within the Hillhouse Technology Enterprise Zone in Thornton-Cleveleys. The council’s concerns focus on Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA), a harmful chemical that was utilized at the site from 1950 until 2012 and subsequently released into the environment.
Elevated Levels of PFOA Detected in Eggs
Scientific sampling of eggs from a limited number of domestic poultry keepers within 1 km of the Hillhouse site has confirmed high levels of PFAS chemicals, particularly PFOA. The findings indicate that the detected levels exceed the recommended Tolerable Weekly Intake (TWI) established by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has conducted a risk assessment, with assistance from the Animal and Plant Health Agency. According to the FSA, consuming just one egg could bring individuals to or surpass the EFSA’s safe weekly limit. This risk is compounded when considering additional sources of PFAS in other dietary items.
Recommendations for Residents
In light of the findings, the FSA has strongly advised residents within a 1 km radius of Hillhouse to refrain from consuming domestically produced eggs. Furthermore, it is recommended that any birds raised for egg production in this area not be included in the food supply.
A representative from the multi-agency group managing the investigation, which is led by Wyre Council and supported by the Environment Agency, expressed: “The risk assessment accomplished by the FSA has determined that certain PFAS, particularly PFOA, are present in sampled eggs at levels that could heighten health risks to humans.”
The spokesperson reassured the community, stating, “We will communicate with poultry keepers and send letters to all households within 1 km of Hillhouse to convey the FSA guidance. We are dedicated to collaborating closely with the FSA as we progress in this investigation.”
AGC Chemicals Europe has stated that they ceased using PFOA in 2012 and claimed that 40 years of monitoring showed no significant adverse effects from emissions. Reports indicate that the company has never used or manufactured PFOS.
Government Response and Future Steps
The pressure group CHEM Trust has highlighted the recent launch of the UK government’s PFAS action plan, aimed at tackling PFAS contamination. However, they criticized the plan for not adequately addressing the broader PFAS pollution crisis, which puts the public, wildlife, and the environment at ongoing risk.
In contrast, they noted that the EU is moving towards stringent regulations on all 10,000 PFAS at their source, and countries such as France and Denmark have already implemented national prohibitions on specific PFAS products.
