What are PFAS and Why Are They a Concern?
Often called “forever chemicals,” Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of man-made chemicals that include Perfluorooctane Sulfonate (PFOS) and Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA).
PFASs, which are highly fluorinated aliphatic molecules, have been released to the environment through industrial manufacturing and through use and disposal of PFAS-containing products. When they are released into our water, it flows from stream, to river, to sea, circulating in ocean currents. Once it gets into the tiniest of organisms, its position in the food chain simply grows.
These chemicals are very persistent in the environment and in the human body, meaning they don’t break down and they can accumulate over time. There is evidence that exposure to PFAS can lead to adverse human health effects.
Consumers may be exposed to PFASs in non-stick cookware, grease-resistant paper, fast food wrappers, microwave popcorn bags, stain-resistant carpets and fabrics, water-resistant clothing, cleaning products, and personal care products.
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What Type of Products Might Contain PFAS?
PFAS have become global pollutants that threaten the health of people and wildlife. And many products may be made with these compounds, including: Some grease-resistant paper, fast food containers/wrappers, microwave popcorn bags, pizza boxes, and ...
What Regulations Govern the Use of PFAS in Products?
There are a variety of laws and regulations to protect public health and the environment. The following list relates to PFAS in the environment: The Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA): Protects public drinking water supplies across the United States. ...