# Occurrence and Health Risk Assessment of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances in Yogurt Across Lebanese Governorates

## TL;DR

This study measured PFAS levels in yogurt from different regions of Lebanon and assessed potential health risks, finding geographic variation and potential concerns in high-contamination areas.

## Contribution

The study provides the first assessment of PFAS contamination in yogurt across multiple Lebanese governorates and evaluates associated health risks.

## Key findings

- The Bekaa region had the highest PFAS concentrations, including PFHpA, PFOA, PFHxS, PFOS, and PFPeA.
- Health risk assessment showed elevated risk quotients for PFOS and PFOA and a cumulative hazard index of 0.71.
- PFAS levels in yogurt were below safety thresholds, but high-burden regions may pose chronic exposure concerns.

## Abstract

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are persistent environmental pollutants of emerging concern due to their widespread use and potential adverse health effects. This study assessed the concentrations of key PFAS compounds in yogurt samples collected from eleven Lebanese governorates. Results revealed notable geographic variability, with the Bekaa region exhibiting the highest PFAS levels, particularly PFHpA, PFOA, PFHxS, PFOS, and PFPeA, while Jbeil showed the lowest concentrations. Health risk assessment using estimated daily intake (EDI), risk quotients (RQ), and cumulative hazard index (HI) indicated all individual compound exposures below established safety thresholds. However, elevated RQs for PFOS and PFOA and an average HI of 0.71 suggest potential chronic exposure concerns in high-burden regions. These findings emphasize the importance of continued monitoring and risk management to protect public health and inform environmental policies addressing PFAS contamination in Lebanon.