PFOS 'forever chemical' can accumulate in bees—and their honey
Phys.org
February 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A groundbreaking study published in *Environmental Science & Technology* has uncovered alarming evidence that perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), a toxic "forever chemical," can accumulate in honeybees and their honey, posing significant risks to pollinators, food security, and potentially human health. Researchers from the University of New England (UNE) conducted a comprehensive investigation into the effects of chronic sublethal exposure to PFOS on European honeybee colonies. The findings revealed that prolonged exposure to environmental levels of PFOS disrupts key cellular functions in bees by altering the expression of proteins critical to cell health, highlighting the far-reaching impact of these chemicals on pollinators.
The study underscores the vulnerability of honeybees to PFOS contamination, which not only affects individual bees but also transfers to their honey. This contamination threatens the viability of bee populations, which are essential for pollinating crops that make up a substantial portion of the global food supply. As PFOS is known to persist in the environment and bioaccumulate, its presence in honey could also raise concerns for human consumers, particularly those who rely on honey as part of their diet.
The research adds to growing scientific concern over the long-term effects of PFOS and other per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) on ecosystems. While previous studies have focused on the impact of PFAS on aquatic life, this new study expands our understanding by linking PFOS exposure to honeybees, which play a vital role in pollination networks worldwide. The findings emphasize the need for further research into how these chemicals interact with terrestrial ecosystems and the potential implications for human health.
Ultimately, this study serves as a critical reminder of the interconnectedness of environmental systems and the importance of safeguarding pollinators. For readers interested in science, particularly those关注 environmental toxicology and food security, this research highlights the urgent need to address PFOS contamination and its far-reaching consequences on both natural ecosystems and human well-being.
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Originally published on Phys.org on 2/26/2026