Despite extensive studies available, further data is needed on breakdown products of novel brominated and organo-P FRs in fauna. This review of 150 publications concludes that metabolism pathways of organo-phosphorus flame retardants are similar in different animals (O-dealkylation, hydroxylation and phase II conjunction) and that di-alkyl phosphates (DAPs) and hydroxylated OPFRs (OH-OPFRs) are the metabolites most present in fauna. Information on metabolic pathways of recent (“novel”) brominated flame retardants is considered lacking. Some studies suggest that certain flame retardant metabolites may cause negative effects and therefore further studies on exposure, effects and risks are considered to be needed, in particular concerning biotransformation and transmission of metabolites between species in food webs.
“The metabolism of novel flame retardants and the internal exposure and toxicity of their major metabolites in fauna – a review”, R. Hou et al., J Environ Expo Assess 2023;2:10, https://dx.doi.org/10.20517/jeea.2023.08