Maine wildlife officials expand ‘Do Not Eat’ advisory

MAINE (WMTW) - The Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife expanded a “Do Not Eat” wildlife consumption advisory. It covers deer and turkeys harvested in parts of central Maine.

The new map now covers:

Albion

Fairfield

Freedom

Knox

Skowhegan

Thorndike

Unity

Unity Township

Wildlife in those communities have tested positive for high levels of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, also known as PFAS, according to state officials.

Testing began in the greater Fairfield area back in 2021 when the first advisory was issued. It has since expanded to three other areas over the last couple of years.

If you have questions about possible health effects from eating deer harvested in the advisory area, the MDIFW is advising contacting a toxicologist at the Maine Center fo