Livewell

Contaminant

PAHs

Combustion byproducts that settle into sediment.

What it is

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons form when coal, oil, wood, and other organic matter burn, and enter waterways from runoff, spills, and industrial discharge. They collect in sediment and in the fatty tissue of bottom-feeding fish. Several PAHs are probable human carcinogens.

Can you reduce your exposure?

Skin the fish and trim away the fatty areas (belly flap, back, and the dark lateral line). Grill, broil, or bake on a rack so the fat drips off, and discard the drippings — don't make soup or sauce from them. Choosing smaller, younger fish also helps.

How to prepare it

  • Skin the fish — most of the contaminant sits in the fat just under the skin.
  • Trim the fatty areas away: the belly flap, the top of the back, and the dark lateral line down each side.
  • Cook on a rack — grill, broil, or bake — so the fat drips off the fillet.
  • Throw the drippings out; don't use them for soup, sauce, or chowder.
  • Choose smaller, younger fish — they've had less time to build it up.

Waters with PAHs advisories

2 waters across 2 states.