PFAS explained: the still widely used 'forever chemicals' - PFAS, often called "forever chemicals," are everywhere—from the water we drink to the food packaging we use. These chemicals are so persistent that they never break down in the environment, earning them their ominous nickname. What’s even more concerning is that data shows that PFAS are found in the blood of up to 99% of Americans.

With growing concerns over their potential health risks, including cancer and immune system issues, it’s clear that PFAS are a significant threat we can no longer ignore. Click through to learn how these chemicals spread, where they’re lurking, and what’s being done to protect public health.

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Plastic threat -

We know plastics are a major environmental threat. They can take up to 1,000 years to decompose, if they break down at all, and during that time they pollute land and waterways.

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Overwhelming -

According to a 2021 report by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, over eight million tons of plastic end up in the ocean each year, harming marine life and entering the food chain.

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Microplastics -

We have also learned about the dangers of microplastics—tiny plastic particles found in products like cosmetics, artificial turf, and detergents.

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Microplastics -

While some are intentionally added to products, many microplastics and nanoplastics are fragments that break off as items wear down, making their way into food, water, air, and nature.

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Everywhere -

In other words, unfortunately, synthetic chemicals are everywhere—infiltrating our food, water, even the air we breathe and the dust that settles in our homes.

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Increased concern -

Studies suggest that, in addition to plastic, other harmful substances are present in our daily lives, and when combined with plastic they can become even more toxic.

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Plastic watch -

Over the years, nonprofit Consumer Reports has examined many potential hazards in foods and products, with one of the most concerning and widespread being polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).

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What are PFAS? -

PFAS refer to a large group of chemicals, including microplastics, often called "forever chemicals." Once created, they are nearly impossible to destroy and can persist in the environment essentially forever.

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Versatile -

Unlike other contaminants, PFAS aren't inherently linked to plastic. While they can be found in some plastic products, they are also widely used in paper, cardboard, cloth, and even metal items.

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What are they used for? -

In use since the 1950s, these chemicals give products stain resistance, protect industrial equipment in harsh conditions, and improve the texture of personal care items. They also allow grease and dirt to slide off carpets and textiles.

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In our homes - PFAS are widely used in industries like aerospace and healthcare, but are also ubiquitous in our daily lives, from household products to critical infrastructure like refrigeration and electrical systems.

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Indestructible -

Due to their indestructibility, PFAS are used to make products waterproof, stain-resistant, greaseproof, nonstick, and resistant to heat or corrosion.

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They're everywhere -

As a result, they’re found in items like greaseproof food packaging, nonstick pans, and water- and stain-resistant clothing. Their use is so widespread that it spans from furniture to smooth dental floss and beyond.

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Types of PFAS -

There are three primary categories of forever chemicals, and one of them is fluorosurfactant. These soap-like substances are commonly used in various industries and can be found in products like paints, coatings, and firefighting foams.

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Types of PFAS -

Fluoropolymers are long-chain molecules, with Teflon being a well-known example, and they’re found in a wide range of consumer products.

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Types of PFAS -

Fluorocarbons are gases or liquids often found in refrigeration and air conditioning systems.

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How do they spread? -

Due to their extreme persistence, PFAS accumulate in the environment, particularly near production, use, and disposal sites.

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Health concerns -

Mounting evidence links PFAS exposure to a range of health concerns, including weakened immunity, thyroid issues, elevated cholesterol, various cancers, metabolic disturbances, liver damage, and kidney disease.

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Exposure -

Since PFAS are widespread, found in rainwater, Arctic ice, and even agricultural soil, research shows that 99% of Americans have detectable levels in their blood.

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Exposure -

While scientists are concerned, they largely agree that the direct risk from most PFAS-containing products in our homes is probably low.

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Biggest threats -

The greatest risk doesn’t come from household products, confirms Stephanie Metzger, a policy adviser on sustainable chemicals at the Royal Society of Chemistry in the UK. It comes from "drinking contaminated water and potentially from food."

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Packaging -

In a study by environmental charity Fidra, PFAS were detected in food packaging from eight out of nine major UK supermarkets and 100% of tested takeaways.

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Chemicals to-go -

Notably, high levels were found in cookie and bakery bags, microwave popcorn packaging, pizza boxes, and both regular and compostable takeaway containers.

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Cosmetics - While PFAS exposure through cosmetics is possible, especially for eye and lip products, contaminated drinking water poses the most significant risk.

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Water contamination -

PFAS can enter water sources through industrial discharges, firefighting foam used at airports and military bases, and runoff from landfills.

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Real danger -

In 2019, Center School in Stow, Massachusetts, closed its water fountains and moved food preparation after high levels of PFAS were found. This was one of the first major cases of PFAS contamination in a school in the state.

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Still present -

Even though two types of PFAS (PFOA and PFOS)  have been phased out in the US, Consumer Reports tests found these chemicals in products like food packaging and milk.

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Banned, but still around? -

Their lingering presence could be due to unintentional use by manufacturers, global supply chains that bring in materials containing these persistent chemicals, or their environmental persistence, which allows them to contaminate food and products.

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What's being done? -

In a significant move, the FDA banned the use of PFAS in food packaging coatings in February 2024. While the ban takes effect, existing products may remain on the market until June 2025.

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What's being done? -

In addition, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recently set the first-ever nationwide drinking water limits for specific PFAS. These tougher regulations are expected to affect 6-10% of water utilities, which will now need to tackle PFAS contamination.

Sources: (The Guardian) (The Washington Post) (The Boston Globe) (EPA) 

See also: The chemicals you use daily may be putting your health at risk

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