EU regulation: An unprecedented opportunity to protect children's and wildlife health from the toxic effects of lead ammunition.

Abstract

Lead is highly toxic to humans and other animals; thus, many uses have been restricted. One exception is lead ammunition, which remains a source of dietary exposure to humans and wildlife. In February 2025, the European Commission published draft regulations for habitat-wide lead ammunition restrictions to protect wildlife and human, particularly children's, health. These require approval under EU processes. Under EU regulation, Maximum Levels (MLs) for lead have been set for most marketed meats to protect human health, but, surprisingly, no ML has been set for lead in game meat: Here we describe research that supports the urgent need for this. We recommend both approval of the proposed EU ban on lead ammunition use and the setting of MLs for lead in game meat as a complementary measure to aid monitoring and encourage transition to lead-free ammunition globally. These long-overdue measures would protect both children's and wildlife health.