PFAS explained: the still widely used 'forever chemicals'

Plastic threat, Overwhelming, Microplastics, Everywhere, Plastic watch, Versatile, In our homes, They're everywhere, Types of PFAS, How do they spread?, Exposure, Biggest threats, Chemicals to-go, Water contamination, Still present, What's being done?

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.

Plastic threat

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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.

Overwhelming

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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.

Microplastics

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

Everywhere

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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.

Plastic watch

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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).

Versatile

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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.

In our homes

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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.

They're everywhere

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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.

Types of PFAS

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

How do they spread?

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

Exposure

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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.

Biggest threats

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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."

Chemicals to-go

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

Water contamination

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

Still present

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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.

What's being done?

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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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