PFAS

We have known  about the presence of “forever chemicals” in our environment for many years, but we haven’t discussed the fact that even Christmas Lake has been found to have PFAS (per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances) in our fish population. Many companies have manufactured these chemicals – which resist heat, grease and water – since the 1950s.  Due to their effectiveness, they have been used in cleaning products, non-stick cookware, water-resistant fabrics, personal care products such as shampoo, dental floss and makeup, batteries, semiconductors and a myriad of other industrial products. 

The challenge that we face is that it may take thousands of years for these chemicals to spontaneously degrade, resulting in accumulation of these substances in our environment over time.  The Minnesota Legislature passed the “Amara” law in 2025 which dictates removal of PFAS in 11 categories of products. Their use is still required in a number of “unavoidable” products. Until replacement chemicals can be developed, we will continue to add PFAS to our environment.

Though there are thousands of types of PFAS, the most common types are PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid) and PFOS (perfluorooctanoic sulfuric acid). PFOS and PFDA (Perfluoro decanoic acid) were found in fish samples from Christmas Lake during a 2017 research study performed by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency.  

Why should we be concerned about the presence of PFAS in our fish? Research has found possible links between PFAS levels in the blood and harmful health effects. High PFAS levels in the blood may increase cholesterol levels, decrease response to vaccines, increase the risk of thyroid disease and some cancers, increase the risk of high blood pressure/preeclampsia during pregnancy and may lower infant birth weights.

Fish accumulate PFAS, as well as mercury, due to environmental exposure in our lakes. Levels of PFAS in fish can be as high as 7000 times the concentration in the water that they inhabit.  As a result, excessive fish consumption may place us at increased risk of suffering PFAS and mercury related health effects.

A small number of Minnesota water bodies have been found to have fish PFAS levels that are high enough that it is recommended that no fish from these waterbodies be consumed. All of these lakes are posted with “Do Not consume Fish From This Lake” signs at public boat launch sites.  Thankfully Christmas Lake has no such restriction. Though PFAS levels in our fish are low enough that we do not face such a restriction we do need to recognize that PFAS exposure may be associated with certain health issues, and it is important to be aware of the new state fish consumption guidelines.

The Minnesota Department of Health in conjunction with the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency updated fish consumption guidelines in April 2025, including new guidelines for those who may become pregnant or are breastfeeding as well as for children under age 15 (due to concerns about mercury and PFAS in growing children).  Here they are: