The San Francisco Estuary Institute recently published a journal article on the occurrence of PFAS in fish from the San Francisco Bay, marking a major milestone in a decade-long monitoring effort. SGS is proud to have led the PFAS testing behind this newly published study, which uncovered 20 different per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) pointing to the relevance of monitoring extended PFAS lists through EPA 1633.
A Decade of Trusted Analytical Support
The article, Spatial Trends and Health Risks of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances in San Francisco Bay Fish from 2009 to 2019, showcases a decade of sustained environmental monitoring. We have supported the study since its inception, providing analytical services for all three sampling efforts. Our long-term involvement brought consistency in testing practices, enabling reliable comparisons over time, even as PFAS target lists expanded and analytical methods advanced. This continuity strengthened the integrity of the data and helped reveal emerging compounds with greater clarity.
Richard Grace, one of our PFAS subject matter experts, is a coauthor of the study. His contributions reflect our scientific expertise and role at the forefront of PFAS method development and validation.
The findings highlight sharp variations in PFAS concentrations depending on where fish were caught. In some parts of the Bay, especially the southern region, levels exceeded health-based consumption thresholds used in states like Massachusetts. These results raise critical public health questions for communities that rely on local fish as a food source.
“This has been an impactful project, not just for advancing PFAS science, but for helping agencies better understand the risks associated with consuming contaminated fish,” said Bharat Chandramouli, SGS Product Director, North America. “Data like this is essential for shaping future health guidelines and protecting communities.”
Continuing Our Commitment to PFAS Research
SGS continues to be at the forefront of PFAS analysis across North America, supporting environmental research, regulatory programs, and public health efforts through accredited laboratories, advanced instrumentation, and scientific expertise.
Read the full article to learn more about this important research and its impact on Bay Area communities: https://www.sfei.org/news/forever-chemicals-found-fish-through-most-bay
