On Friday, the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) released new updated guidance regarding the consumption of fish from the Mississippi River south of the metro due to the presence of contaminants.
MDH said its experts found a mixture of contaminants, including per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, also known as PFAS (forever chemicals).
This guidance applies to three Minnesota counties: Dakota, Goodhue and Wabasha. MDH advises women who are or may become pregnant and children under 15 not to consume fish caught in the Mississippi River from St. Paul to Wabasha.
related: Minnesota health experts monitor PFAS contamination in freshwater fish
Men and children over the age of 15 are encouraged to limit their intake of fish from the Mississippi River in this region to one fish per month.
“For most people, fish is a good source of protein and rich in essential vitamins and minerals, making it part of a nutritious and balanced diet. The Department of Health encourages people to limit their intake of fish from certain bodies of water to avoid potential adverse health effects.”
MDH Deputy Commissioner Maira Kunas
MDH's guidelines include new restrictions for Goodhue and Wabasha counties and stricter guidelines for Dakota County.
related: MDH says some people shouldn't eat fish caught in Lake Rebecca, part of the Mississippi River, citing PFAS levels
For more guidance on fishing and fish consumption in Minnesota, visit the MDH website.
MDH, the Department of Natural Resources, and the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency are working to provide Minnesotans with the information they need to make informed choices about PFAS and other contaminants in waters and fish and their impact on human health. We are collaborating to investigate scientific information regarding the potential impact on Family health and safety.
Click here for 5 Eyewitness News' complete coverage of PFAS.
