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by: Nicole Alarcon - March 5, 2026
NEW YORK (PIX11) — New data suggests PFAS, commonly called “forever chemicals,” were found in locally grown vegetables on Long Island, according to a group of experts.
Citizens Campaign for the Environment, Stony Brook University and Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility (PEER) released findings Thursday showing elevated PFAS levels in vegetables sampled from eight farms across the North and South Forks.
Samples were taken from vegetables including carrots, romaine lettuce, Boston lettuce and beets.
Researchers said the produce came from two organic farms and six farms that use pesticides. The farms where samples were collected were not identified by name or location.
“This is a nationwide crisis that the Environmental Protection Agency needs to tackle, and unfortunately it is not,” said Kyla Bennett, PEER’s director of science policy.
The EPA suggests a 70 parts per trillion (ppt) combined health advisory for PFAS. The samples collected showed carrot levels at 950 ppt, exceeding the daily reference dose, according to experts.
Samples taken from lettuce and beets also showed similar trends, but at lower ranges.
What are PFAS?
Per‑ and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, are toxic chemicals used for decades in industrial and consumer products because of their nonstick, grease‑resistant, and waterproof properties.
PFAS, also known as “forever chemicals,” accumulate in the body and do not easily break down in the environment.
What caused the PFAS contamination?
Environmental toxicologist Dr. Steve Lasee said more studies are needed and that there is no specific known cause for the contamination found in the vegetables on Long Island.
Researchers on Thursday’s panel stressed that Long Island farmers are not to blame. Instead, they urged the public to call for federal action.
Lasee suggested contamination could come from irrigation water, pesticides, fertilizers, or other products used during harvests. He also noted that wet and dry deposition from dust or rain could carry PFAS onto the produce.
How to minimize risks from forever chemicals
Experts suggest that using water filters in sinks and showers could help reduce contamination levels.
They also suggest checking everyday consumer products for PFAS.