Steer Clear of PFAS and Other Artificial Compounds in Your Diet
In today's world, we come across a variety of products marketed as stain-resistant and waterproof. However, a concerning revelation has emerged: many of these items contain Perfluoroalkyl Substances (PFASs), a group of synthetic chemicals that have been linked to a range of health issues.
PFASs are commonly found in non-stick cookware, waterproof clothing, carpeting, and even food packaging materials such as fast food wrappers. They are also present in various everyday items like medical products, chemical industry seals, and sealant tape. Even in our food chain, PFASs are detected in animal-based products such as fish, mussels, chicken eggs, and internal organs like the liver, indicating environmental contamination from these substances.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) took a step towards addressing this issue in 2016 by banning three of the worst PFASs from food uses in response to a petition. Yet, there is growing concern that chemical cousins of those banned PFASs are being used, and manufacturers do not have to disclose this to consumers.
To help consumers avoid PFASs, the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) suggests asking manufacturers if their products contain PFASs. It's important to note that PFAS chemicals are unlikely to be listed on product labels, so inquiring is essential.
Common products containing significant amounts of PFAS include non-stick pans, rain jackets, and personal care products with "PTFE" or "fluoro" ingredients. Textiles made with the original formulation of Scotchgard also contain PFAS.
Avoiding certain practices can also help minimize exposure to PFASs. For instance, it's recommended to avoid ordering or heating up food in grease-resistant paper, and opting for stovetop popcorn instead of microwave popcorn bags, which are often treated with PFASs.
Exposure to certain PFASs has been associated with lower-than-average birth weights in human offspring, and some PFAS chemistries have been linked to kidney, prostate, rectal, and testicular cancers, hormone malfunction, liver and thyroid problems, and abnormal fetal development. Women with high levels of PFASs in their bloodstreams take longer on average to get pregnant.
PFASs can linger in the body for years before being flushed out, underscoring the importance of limiting exposure. For more information about PFASs and other environmental issues, you can contact EarthTalk. For specific queries about PFASs, the NRDC is the contact point.
Stay informed, make conscious choices, and prioritise your health.
