Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in livers of wild boar (Sus scrofa) in Germany: analysis of official monitoring data in relation to local land use characteristics

Abstract

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) constitute a group of anthropogenic compounds that are ubiquitously distributed in the environment due to their widespread use in various industrial processes and consumer products. Among foodstuffs of animal origin, wild boar (Sus scrofa) livers may contain particularly high levels of PFAS. Additionally, wild boars have been identified as suitable bioindicators and are used by German national authorities for monitoring purposes. In the context of consumer health risk assessment, information on influencing environmental factors is crucial for the risk analysis process. The objective of this study was to systematically analyze reports from the national monitoring program on PFAS concentrations in wild boar livers from 3 German federal states (n = 217). The analysis was based on publicly available data on land use characteristics, including urbanization, industry, agriculture, and forest areas in the sampled regions. Overall, data on sample characteristics (e.g., age, sex, body weight) varied between and within Federal States and counties. Despite these inconsistencies, statistical analyses revealed significant differences in the average PFAS concentrations between counties within the Federal States. Additionally, significant correlations were observed between land use features and PFAS concentrations, varying by Federal State and substance. In conclusion, land-use-based evaluations of food monitoring data may prove valuable for characterizing PFAS levels in wild boar liver. Harmonizing sampling protocols, data collection, and analytical methods among state laboratories will improve the comparability and interpretation of official monitoring data in future assessments.