Michigan Issues Do Not Eat Advisory for Contaminated Fish

News Summary

Health officials in Michigan have issued a ‘Do Not Eat’ advisory for fish from four lakes due to high levels of PFOS, a toxic chemical linked to health risks. This warning affects all fish species from Hopewell Indian Mounds Pond, Luvis Lake, Porter Lake, and Spelman Lake. Authorities stress the health dangers of consuming these fish, as PFOS can disrupt bodily functions and is difficult to eliminate through cooking. As PFOS levels rise, the state has seen a sharp increase in advisories, prompting calls for stronger measures against PFAS pollution.

Wyoming, Michigan — State health officials have issued a “Do Not Eat” advisory for fish caught from four specific water bodies in southwest Michigan due to dangerously high levels of perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), a toxic chemical linked to various health risks. The advisory impacts all species of fish from Hopewell Indian Mounds Pond, Luvis Lake, Porter Lake, and Spelman Lake, all located in the Grandville-Wyoming area.

Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, Michigan’s chief medical executive, has warned the public that consuming fish from these waters could pose significant health threats. PFOS is a type of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS) that is not found naturally in the environment and is recognized as harmful to human health. The chemical tends to accumulate in the muscle tissue of fish, making it difficult to eliminate through traditional cooking methods, such as trimming fat.

Health officials have highlighted numerous risks associated with PFOS exposure. It has been shown to potentially disrupt thyroid function, alter immune responses, and increase levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and total cholesterol. Additionally, adverse effects on liver function can occur, along with heightened risks of pregnancy-related hypertension and preeclampsia.

As PFOS levels in Michigan waters have risen, the number of “Do Not Eat” advisories has escalated dramatically from 33 last year to 98 this year. The state has set a threshold of 1.5 parts per billion for PFOS concentrations, under which advisories are issued. The most critical warnings are given when levels reach 49.6 parts per billion. This adjustment marks a significant change from earlier standards established in 2014, reflecting the growing understanding of PFAS health effects over the years.

PFAS contamination has been associated with a range of health issues, including various forms of cancer and thyroid dysfunction, and has been detected in freshwater fish throughout the United States. In light of these findings, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) has released the 2025 Eat Safe Fish Guide, which details the extent of contamination in state waters and advises on safe consumption levels for different fish species.

Many advocates working against PFAS pollution have lauded Michigan’s revised guidelines. They view the updated advisories as a reflection of contemporary scientific knowledge about the risks posed by these hazardous substances. However, these advocates also call for stricter measures to tackle PFAS pollution at its source to better protect public health and the environment.

For those who fish or consume fish in Michigan, it is essential to consult the latest guidelines and local advisories. The health department recommends caution and informed decisions when considering the consumption of fish from affected areas to mitigate potential health risks associated with PFOS contamination.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

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