"Forever Chemicals" on our Plates
A discussion event with scientific insights into PFAS in our food system
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), so‑called “forever chemicals,” are no longer confined to industrial sites; they have made their way into Swiss soils, waterways, and ultimately into the food we eat. Recent headlines have highlighted PFAS detections in everyday foods such as meat, fish, eggs, and even milk and yoghurt, with several samples found to exceed permitted limits. But how do these substances enter the food chain, and what does their growing presence mean for our microbiome and overall health?
Join the World Food System Center for a science-based dialogue that goes beyond the headlines to trace the journey of PFAS. Following spotlight presentations, we invite the audience to engage in a panel discussion and continue the conversation over an Apéro, featuring dedicated discussion tables with the scientists.
Speakers:
Elvira Rudin, Doctoral Candidate, Environmental Chemistry Group, Department of Environmental System Science, ETH Zurich
Serina Robinson, Group Leader, Microbial Specialized Metabolism Group, Deptartment of Environmental Microbiology, EAWAG
Georg Aichinger, Group Leader, Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zürich
Katrin Hecht, Lecturer at the Department of Health Sciences and Technology
Jane Muncke, Managing Director and Chief Scientific Officer, Food Packaging Forum
Event Details:
📅 Date: 19 March
⏰ Time: 18:00 – 19:30 (followed by Apéro, arrival welcome from 17:30)
💬 Language: English
📍 Location: Dozentenfoyer, ETH Zurich Zentrum
Program
17:30 - Doors Open
18:00 - Welcome & Spotlight Presentations
18:45 - Panel Discussion
19:25 - Wrap Up
19:30 - Networking & Apéro
🔔 RSVP: This event is free, but registration is mandatory. Sign up early to secure a spot and de-register if your plans change.
Who should attend?
Whether you’re a student, researcher, entrepreneur, policymaker, industry professional, or simply passionate about food, this event is for you. Join us if you’re engaged in food system research, shaping food policy, building a food-related venture, or looking to exchange ideas with like-minded experts and food enthusiasts.
About the World Food System Center
The World Food System Center was established at ETH Zurich based on the belief that the real-world solutions needed to tackle the challenges our food system faces require collaboration from global and local stakeholders across the entire food value chain. We work across disciplines and scales and in partnerships with key stakeholders to create new knowledge and ensure it is translated into real world impact.
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This event is part of the World Food System Center Dialogue Series 2026.
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