The U.S. Poultry & Egg Association (USPOULTRY) and the USPOULTRY Foundation are seeking research preproposals to examine the presence and potential movement of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in incoming potable water supplies used at poultry processing facilities. As federal and state agencies expand PFAS monitoring and establish drinking water standards, additional scientific information is needed to better understand whether PFAS present in incoming water may contribute to residues elsewhere within poultry processing systems.

Through its Board Research Initiative (BRI), USPOULTRY aims to characterize the occurrence, sources and potential movement of PFAS in commercial poultry processing facilities. Research may examine whether PFAS in incoming potable water transfers to poultry products or by-products during processing; potential sources and pathways within facilities; whether specific processing steps influence PFAS movement or accumulation; distribution among products, wastewater and biosolids; and effective methods for PFAS detection and monitoring. The goal is to generate scientific data that can help inform future risk assessments, regulatory decisions, industry guidance and potential mitigation strategies.

Researchers from colleges, universities and research institutions are invited to submit preproposals by Nov. 2. To view more information about this topic and how to submit preproposals, visit the USPOULTRY BRI webpage.