Independent report

Mercury

Risk assessment of dietary mercury exposure during pregnancy, supporting food safety advice on potential risks to maternal and offspring health.

• From: Committee on Toxicity of Chemicals in Food, Consumer Products and the Environment
• Published: 15 December 2025

Documents

Statement on the effects of mercury on maternal health.

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Statement on the effects of mercury on maternal health.

PDF, 883 KB, 50 pages

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Statement on the Effects of Mercury on Maternal Health – Lay Summary (CO/T2025/03)

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Statement on the Effects of Mercury on Maternal Health – Lay Summary (CO/T2025/03)

PDF, 182 KB, 3 pages

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Details

• Scope: This statement considers the effects of mercury exposure on maternal health, including pre‑conception, pregnancy and breastfeeding. It assesses inorganic mercury and methylmercury from dietary, environmental and aggregate sources, reviews toxicological evidence, evaluates exposure in women of childbearing age, and compares estimated intakes with established health‑based guidance values.
• Committee: Committee on Toxicity
• Type: Statement
• Statement number: COT/2025/03

Published 15 December 2025