Exposure of halogenated organic compounds via food

Many environmental pollutants are organohalogen compounds—some of which are highly toxic and globally banned. However, a wide variety of these compounds are also naturally produced in ecosystems, especially in soils and certain plants and seafood. Despite their potential health effects, we know very little about how they enter the food chain.

This project investigates how humans may be exposed to organohalogens through food. By measuring levels in different food sources and analyzing their chemical diversity, we aim to build a foundation for understanding their possible impact on human health.

Organohalogen compounds—some toxic, others potentially beneficial—are naturally formed in soils, plants, and marine environments. Organohalogen compounds are found in surprisingly high levels in nature, especially in soils and seaweed. Despite their potential impact on human health, we still know very little about how these substances enter the food chain. This project aims to explore how humans may be exposed to organohalogens through food.

The total levels of organohalogens and their unknown chemical diversity in food products from agriculture and forests will be quantified. In addition to analyses of total organohalogens by Combustion Ion Chromatography (CIC) in combination with high-resolution analyses for detailed analyses of the chemical diversity. This first mapping of dietary total organohalogen exposure and how it is regulated is a necessary initial step towards knowledge on consequences of the potential human exposure of organohalogens via food.

Researchers

Teresia Svensson

Deputy Head of Department, Associate Professor, Docent

Johannes Kikuchi

PhD student

David Bastviken

Professor

Henrik Kylin

Professor

Organisation

Linköping University Environmental Science Laboratory, EnviSciLab

Since 1985, the EnviSciLab at Linköping University has been an important resource. The laboratory serves as a meeting point for researchers from various disciplines and offers unique opportunities for interdisciplinary research and education.

Environmental Change (TEMAM)

Almost all nature bears traces of human activity. Its condition is strongly linked to social development. This creates a need for scientific breadth and problem-solving skills. Education and research at Environmental Change respond to this challenge.

Drone image of the Tema building at Campus Valla

Department of Thematic Studies (TEMA)

In an increasingly complicated world, there is a need for researchers that can handle both breadth and depth, and can collaborate across disciplinary borders. Major societal questions are studied from an interdisciplinary perspective at TEMA.