Evaluating daily exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls and polybrominated diphenyl ethers in fish oil supplements

Abstract

Fish oil supplements have become a popular means of increasing one's dietary intake of essential polyunsaturated fatty acids. However, there is growing concern that the levels and potential health effects of lipophilic organic contaminants such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) may diminish some of the health benefits associated with the daily consumption of fish oil supplements. In this study, ten over-the-counter fish oil supplements available in the United States were analysed for PCBs and PBDEs and daily exposures calculated. Based on manufacturers’ recommended dosages, daily intakes of PCBs and PBDEs ranged from 5 to 686 ng day⁻¹ and from 1 to 13 ng day⁻¹, respectively. Daily consumption of fish oil supplements expose consumers to PCBs and PBDEs. However, in comparison with fish ingestion, fish supplements may decrease daily PCB exposure and provide a safer pathway for individuals seeking to maintain daily recommended levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids.

Keywords:

• polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs)
• polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs)
• fish oil
• exposure

Acknowledgements

This research was partially funded by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (Grant no. C000036369) and the Patrick Center for Environmental Research at the Academy of Natural Sciences (Patrick Center Endowment Fund).