MADISON, Wis., Feb 10, 2009 (UPI via COMTEX) -- Experts say lead shot from
firearms and lead sinkers might pose health risks for humans and wildlife alike.
The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reported Tuesday that studies indicate venison
often contains lead fragments, and birds have been found with fishing sinkers in
their bodies and elevated lead levels in their blood.
In Wisconsin, 15 percent of 199 samples of commercially processed venison
contained lead bullet fragments, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
and Department of Health Services found in November.
In hunter-processed venison, researchers found that 8 percent of 98 samples
contained lead fragments.
The study suggested there may be a risk of elevated lead levels in blood among
children who consume venison.
The study noted that children 7 years old and younger who eat two meals a month
of venison containing higher amounts of lead may have a 90 percent chance of
lead levels in their blood rising above tolerable limits set by the U.S. Food
and Drug Administration.
In response, the Wisconsin Department of Health Services has recommended the
eventual transition to non-lead
ammunition.
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