Seafood consumption and PBDE exposure in Newfoundland, Canada: Insights into the sustainability of local fisheries and public health

Coastal communities like Newfoundland depend on seafood for sustenance, economy, and cultural identity. However, shifting consumption patterns threaten the sustainability of local fisheries and pose public health risks, particularly from persistent organic pollutants like polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs). This study investigates the socioeconomic factors and dietary habits influencing seafood choices in Newfoundland and explores the potential health risks associated with PBDE through dietary exposure. The results reveal that older generation tend to favor locally sourced seafood species, while the younger generation often choose non-local seafood due to affordability and availability, creating challenges for the long-term sustainability of local fisheries and marine ecosystems. Further, the estimated dietary chronic exposure to PBDEs in local seafood, such as cod, exhibits the highest concentrations of BDE-47 (314 ng/kg bw/year) and BDE-99 (9.88 ng/kg bw/year). While these levels are below safety thresholds, chronic low-dose exposure poses potential risks, especially for vulnerable populations. This study highlights the need for integrated environmental management strategies to promote local, sustainable seafood consumption, monitor contaminants, and protect public health in coastal communities. • Generational seafood preferences shift toward imports, threatening local fisheries • Age and income influence seafood choices and contaminant exposure risks • Trophic magnification factors link meal sizes to seafood PBDE doses • Chronic PBDE exposure from cod (314 ng kg⁻¹ bw yr⁻¹) warrants long-term monitoring • Even low PBDE doses raise lifelong neuro-thyroid concerns for heavy consumers