Foraging fram animals as biomonitors for dioxin contamination

Studies carried out in California, following a fire which involved a pentachlorophenol wood treatment plant have indicated that low concentrations of dioxins and furans in soil can lead to bioaccumulation in chickens and cattle which are in contact with the soil. These compounds were found to distribute into various tissues of the animals and into the eggs of the chickens. A significant change in congener profile and isomer pattern was seen when comparing soils to tissues. Source tests of local incinerators showed quite different congener profile than was seen in soils. Concentrations found in animal products used as food suggest the possibility of excessive human exposure based on modest consumption assumptions.