Locally Caught Freshwater Fish
High burden — Locally Caught Freshwater Fish is a significant avoidable exposure.
Fish taken from local rivers and lakes rather than bought.
The breakdown
Each driver rated 0 (none) to 10 (worst)
Evidence strength: strong · Detox Score = 100 − hazard×4.6 − exposure×3.4 − persistence×2.6, clamped 1–100.
What this means for you
A Detox Score of 38 places locally caught freshwater fish in the High band. The persistence rating is the standout concern here — these compounds linger in the body and environment for years. In July 2024 the EPA added twelve PFAS to the contaminants it recommends states and Tribes monitor in locally caught freshwater fish, and says its national fish-tissue survey has found PFAS at levels that may affect health. Advisories are issued water by water, so which lake or river the fish came from matters more than the species.
Frequently asked questions
Is locally caught freshwater fish a toxic exposure?
Locally Caught Freshwater Fish has a Detox Score of 38 out of 100 (High burden), which means it is a significant avoidable exposure. In July 2024 the EPA added twelve PFAS to the contaminants it recommends states and Tribes monitor in locally caught freshwater fish, and says its national fish-tissue survey has found PFAS at levels that may affect health. Advisories are issued water by water, so which lake or river the fish came from matters more than the species.
What is a safer alternative to locally caught freshwater fish?
A lower-exposure swap for locally caught freshwater fish is: Check your state, Tribal or territory fish advisory before eating the catch. In July 2024 the EPA added twelve PFAS to the contaminants it recommends states and Tribes monitor in locally caught freshwater fish, and says its national fish-tissue survey has found PFAS at levels that may affect health. Advisories are issued water by water, so which lake or river the fish came from matters more than the species.