Persistent organic pollutants in selected Icelandic food matrices: a multimatrix screening approach

This study explores the presence of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in locally sourced Icelandic foods, covering wild and farmed fish, fish-derived products, terrestrial meats, puffin meat, and berries. The highest contaminant levels were measured in shark and fish liver, with PBDEs and pesticides reaching 97 ng/g ww and 13755 ng/g ww, respectively. Notable variations in the relative contaminant distribution were observed among sample types. Although most concentrations measured were below current EU Maximum Residue Levels, shark and Atlantic puffin exceeded regulatory limits for certain contaminants, suggesting that these products may not be suitable for human consumption unless appropriate safety controls are applied. Higher concentrations of lipophilic compounds (PBDEs, organochlorine pesticides, PCBs, PCDD/Fs) were observed in fatty matrices such as liver, consistent with their well-established bioaccumulative behavior. These findings highlight the need for monitoring high-risk food products and broadening contaminant surveillance to non-marine local foods, which are often overlooked despite their dietary importance for Arctic populations. • Screening of POPs in Icelandic food items from marine and terrestrial origin • Multi-class contaminant analysis including PFAS, OCPs, PBDEs, PCBs, PBBs, PCDD/Fs • Shark exceeded EU MRLs for dioxins and PCBs • Results highlight the need of defining pesticide MRLs in fish and seafood • Food monitoring in the Arctic should include food sources beyond seafood, such as terrestrial animals, dairy products, fruits and vegetables.