Key facts
- An environmental NGO, ClientEarth, filed a human rights complaint against Belgium.
- The complaint was filed with the European Committee of Social Rights.
- ClientEarth alleges Belgium failed to protect citizens from high levels of PFAS.
- Authorities in Belgium were aware of PFAS contamination for years.
- The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) rejected a petition to set limits for PFAS in food.
- Scientific evidence indicates food is a major source of PFAS exposure.
- The FDA plans to set non-binding "action levels" for PFAS in food.
- The FDA will not set mandatory limits for PFAS in food.
Environmental NGO ClientEarth has lodged a human rights complaint against Belgium with the European Committee of Social Rights. The complaint asserts that Belgium has failed to adequately protect its citizens from high levels of PFAS, commonly known as 'forever chemicals'. ClientEarth points to a history of inaction by Belgian authorities, who have been aware of the contamination for years. The NGO's action underscores the growing international concern over PFAS pollution and its potential health impacts.