PFAS, or "forever chemicals," are found in countless everyday products, from non-stick pans to food packaging. These chemicals persist in the environment for centuries and can pose serious health risks. While avoiding PFAS altogether is nearly impossible, there are steps you can take to reduce your exposure.
What Are PFAS?
PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, is an umbrella term for thousands of chemicals that are prized for their durability and non-stick properties. These chemicals are used in products designed to resist water, stains, and grease. With over 12,000 chemicals under the PFAS label, they have become ubiquitous in daily life.
Are PFAS the Same as 'Forever Chemicals'?
Yes, PFAS are often called "forever chemicals" because they don’t break down in nature and can persist for centuries. This longevity makes PFAS particularly dangerous as they accumulate in the environment and in the human body.
Are PFAS the Same as Microplastics?
While both PFAS and microplastics are widely found in the environment and the human body, they are not the same. Microplastics are tiny plastic particles, while PFAS are chemicals. Both, however, pose significant health risks, with PFAS being linked to a variety of serious conditions like high cholesterol, cancer, fertility issues, and immune system disorders.
What Are PFAS Used For?
PFAS are used in many consumer products due to their water- and stain-resistant properties. These chemicals are commonly found in non-stick cookware, fire retardants, waterproof clothing, food packaging (such as pizza boxes and takeout containers), furniture, carpets, electronics, and even dental floss. Unfortunately, once these products are discarded, PFAS can seep into the soil and water, persisting for centuries.
Are PFAS Harmful?
PFAS exposure is a growing concern because these chemicals can accumulate in the human body, posing various health risks. People who live near contaminated water sources are especially at risk. PFAS have been linked to kidney disease, some cancers, birth defects, high cholesterol, and immune system dysfunction. Given their widespread presence in products, minimizing exposure to PFAS is important for health.
Are PFAS in Water?
Yes, PFAS can enter drinking water through industrial discharge, firefighting foams, or runoff from landfills. Some water sources are more heavily contaminated than others, and regular water testing is crucial to identifying these toxins. Certain filters, like reverse osmosis systems, can remove PFAS, but not all water filters are effective.
How to Avoid PFAS Exposure
Avoiding PFAS entirely is almost impossible, but there are practical steps to reduce exposure:
- In Your Kitchen: Opt for alternatives to non-stick cookware, like stainless steel or cast iron. Avoid plastic kitchen tools and consider using safer materials like glass, stainless steel, or wood. Avoid marketed "eco" or "green" products, as these terms lack legal definitions.
- In Your Food: PFAS contamination is widespread in processed foods, which may have higher levels of the chemicals. Try to focus on fresh, unprocessed foods, and avoid consuming food packaged in materials like pizza boxes, plastic wrappers, and takeout containers, which may contain PFAS. You can test packaging by applying a drop of olive oil; if it beads up, it may contain PFAS.
- In Your Water: While some filters can reduce PFAS, it’s important to choose one designed for this purpose. Reverse osmosis and ZeroWater filters are among the most effective, but boiling water won’t remove PFAS.
- In Your Beauty Products: Many beauty products, including waterproof mascaras, may contain PFAS. Look for products labeled "PFAS-free" or check ingredient lists for substances like PTFE or fluoro.
- In Your Clothing: Waterproof or water-resistant clothing is likely to contain PFAS. Opt for clothing made from natural fibers to avoid exposure.
Can PFAS Be Absorbed Through the Skin?
Yes, studies have shown that PFAS can be absorbed through the skin, entering the bloodstream at higher levels than previously thought. This highlights the need for vigilance when choosing personal care products and clothing.PFAS are pervasive in our everyday lives, making them difficult to avoid entirely. However, by making informed choices about the products we use, consume, and discard, we can reduce our exposure to these harmful chemicals.
