PFAS: Learn More About Everlasting Chemicals

Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl chemicals known as “PFAS” are commonly referred to as “everlasting” or “permanent” products because of their high resistance to degradation. As a result, industry employs them in a variety of products ranging from jet fuel and foam fireproofing to fast food packaging and microwave ovens, as well as non-stick panels and clothing waterproof. Learn a little more about this subject!

Read more: Non-stick pan: Check out all the necessary care when cleaning

Controversies with the use of PFAS

The tenacity and persistence of these eternals complicates their use. These chemicals remain in drinking water and even in the human bloodstream, where they have already been detected, and will remain there indefinitely.

In the United States, researchers found this substance in pineapples, meats, seafood, sweet potatoes, milk chocolate and cakes. This is because, in industry, about 9,000 different types of PFAS are used.

One of the main reasons for the continued use of these compounds is the lack of awareness and knowledge on the part of the population. This is because, in addition to manufacturers not disclosing the presence of PFAS in their products, some consumers are unaware that they are using them.

In addition, there is a very large lack of regulation regarding this substance, and many consumers don't have the time or motivation to write to companies and governments asking for notifications and measurements.

Health effects

According to the US Government Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), studies in humans exposed to FPAS have revealed that they can:

• Interfere with the body's hormones;
• Increase cholesterol levels;
• Affect the immune system;
• Increase the risk of cancer.

Where are the PFAS found?

PFAS can be found in certain products, according to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). See some of them below:

• Food processed with equipment that used PFAS, packaged in materials containing PFAS, or grown in soil contaminated by PFAS;
• Commercial household products such as stain and water resistant fabrics, Teflon (non-stick) products, paints, waxes, polishes, cleaners and fire sprays;
• Workplace, including manufacturing facilities or industries that use PFAS (such as chrome plating, electronics manufacturing, or oil recovery);
• Drinking water, associated with and located at a specific facility (eg, an airport, factory, sewage treatment plant, or firefighter training facility);
• Living organisms, including fish, humans and other animals, in which PFAS have the ability to settle and persist over time.