PFAS detected in every Dutch breast milk sample, study finds

The Dutch National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) analysed breast‑milk from 1,629 women across the Netherlands and found PFAS in all samples. In roughly one‑fifth of the cases the concentration exceeded the risk threshold, raising concerns about possible health effects such as cancer, elevated cholesterol and reproductive problems.

The study notes that newborns are exposed to these chemicals through breastfeeding, but the typical duration of exclusive nursing (about one year) limits the overall exposure. The Dutch Nutrition Centre stresses that the benefits of breastfeeding still outweigh the potential risk. Both organisations call for stronger action to reduce PFAS use, including a possible EU‑wide ban, which they expect would lower concentrations in breast‑milk and diminish health risks.