Document MojNZd7xjaKV51MOLrVXy7wa9

Lake Michigan Toxic Substances Committee Kay 22, 1975 Conclusions A. The ef/cct^J.eveJ of PCB's. in primates,reproduction is recently documented as less than 2.5 ppm and is much lower than has been observed in standard test sukmmals (rats). ' .' s B. As s result of recent court decisions the FDA is now enforcing the 5 ppm residue maximum In fish intended for human consumption and is likely to re view the 5 ppm maximum allowable based on recent primate toxicological evi dence. C. The concentrations of PCB's in Lake Michigan fish are probably not decreasing and Saloonids, particularly larger specimens, currently achieved the 5 ppm maximum allowable level. ' ]> Reported efforts by the manufacturer to restrict distribution and efforts by the agencies to restrict discharges have not .resulted in PCB reductions in fhe lake. ` / ' . ,. E. Zt is probable that wastewater sources of PCB's to Lake Michigan are ubiquitous end at or below detectable levels. '. |** An economic loss has already resulted to the commercial fishery as a result of PCB contamination. A much larger economic loss to the commercial and sport fishing industry is Imminent in light of current FDA food recommendations and * enforcement actions. * C. Non-wastewater PCB's are probably still reaching the environment from incinera tion, land disposal, and careless dumping. F _ MOMS 050999 * -* - -2- B The presence of PCB*s in many processes and many products, continues to be ' ' ' "'n. widespread In spite of Monsanto Chemical Company policy to restr7ict sale 'for rp closed systems. * . U~&*1*+* 0 j. For many If not for all uses, PCB's can be eliminated or replaced by alterna tive chemicals. MONS 051000 t.