Toxic substances have been found in the milk of dolphins

This is a group of PFAS substances - so-called "perpetual chemicals". They are virtually indestructible in nature and accumulate in water, soil, animals and the human body.

Details

In a new study, scientists analysed dolphin milk samples and found PFAS in them. This means that the cubs can receive these substances already in the first months of life.

Dolphins are particularly important for such research because they feed their calves high-fat milk for long periods of time - and it is in fatty tissues that such chemicals often accumulate.

The scientists also noted that some of the levels of substances detected may be worrisome when centred on data on human exposure to PFAS.

Why it matters

The results confirm that environmental contamination affects even the earliest stages of an animal's life.

This means:

• chemicals can be passed from mother to offspring
• exposure begins during growth and development
• the problem is global and not confined to a single ecosystem

Animal studies also help to understand the possible risks to humans.

Background

PFASs are widely used in industry and households - for example in non-stick cookware, packaging and water-repellent materials. They can enter the body through water, food and the environment.

In humans, it has previously been shown that such substances can also be transmitted to infants through breastfeeding.

Source

The study was published in the journal Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry (2026). The scientists analysed archived samples of dolphin milk and studied the distribution of PFAS in the marine environment.