What are PFAS?
Our health is being harmed by Synthetic chemicals used in everyday products and the PFAS are ones that lately we've been hearing a lot about. PFAS stands for polyfluoroalkyl substances. These chemicals are used in non-stick cookware, food containers like take-out boxes, stain-proofing, furniture, water-resistant clothing, and adhesives to name a few. We are exposed to PFAS by the processing and by the use of the products. They are in our homes and at work, there almost everywhere, including in our bodies. PFAS detrimentally impacts our health with issues like kidney, testicular, and thyroid cancer, harm to fetuses, damage to the liver, and reproductive harm. These have all shown up in human and animal studies. Children are especially at risk.
PFAS have eerily been called forever chemicals because they are nearly indestructible; they don't go away (maybe in 1000 years). For some reason (anyone want to guess?), manufacturers don’t have to disclose to consumers that they’re using them, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) doesn’t regulate or test for most PFAS chemicals.
And now, two environmental advocacy groups allege that the "EPA Illegally Hid Health and Safety Data on PFAS Found in Millions of Plastic Containers". They state that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is breaking the law by concealing health and safety data about the class of toxic chemicals called per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) found in millions of plastic containers. A lawsuit has been filed.
What Can We Do About It?
Although everywhere, we can take steps to minimize our exposure to PFAS
Avoid plastic containers: Refrain from using plastic containers whenever possible, especially for storing food. Choose glass or stainless-steel containers instead. Glass mason jars work great for storing foods like soup and leftovers.
Never, use plastic in a microwave: If you must use a microwave never use plastic or the grease-resistant PFAS laden wrap that foods can come in.
(Microwaving food for any reason destroys the quality of food).
Choose packaging wisely: Be mindful when purchasing food products and opt for items that are not packaged in plastic. Give preference to organic fruits and vegetables, which are less likely to be packaged in plastic.
Research products: If you or your family still use plastic containers, research to identify if they are manufactured by companies like Inhance that use PFAS in their production processes.
Avoid perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA): Specifically, avoid plastic containers containing perfluorooctanoic acid, as it is known to be carcinogenic.
Filter Your Water: Reverse Osmosis is best. Shop Berkey and Aqua Tru Water Filters!
Ask your water provider for data on PFAS testing in your area. If there isn’t any data, ask the provider and your state to start monitoring for a wider range of these chemicals. If there is contamination, ask your state and water provider to install treatments to remove PFAS from your water. This is only currently legally required for certain PFAS in certain states, but a provider may still do it voluntarily.
Avoid non-stick cookware, like Teflon, and replace it with ceramic, stainless steel, and cast iron. Extrema and Chef's Foundry are both good options!
Refuse to purchase PFAS-laden clothing. Check the brand’s website to see if it states it has eliminated PFAS from its clothing or contact customer service to ask directly. Don’t be fooled by labels or promises that a product is “PFOA-free” or “PFOS-free,” since those two particular PFAS chemicals have already been eliminated from U.S. production and there are many other PFAS-containing substitutes in use.
See what brands and stores are scoring high and Low for PFAS HERE at NRDC.
Refuse to purchase furniture, rugs, and bedding that are labeled as being water- or stain-repellent. Those treatments are practically guaranteed to contain PFAS. If you’re wondering about a potential purchase, check the manufacturer’s website or call customer service and inquire whether its products are PFAS-free; some manufacturers of rugs and carpets have eliminated these chemicals.
Remember we vote with our dollars. There is plenty we can do and each one of us can make a difference. Be a squeaky wheel, contact your representatives, and share the knowledge.
Thankfully, we have the power to take control and effectively eliminate the presence of PFAS in our drinking water. When it comes to water purification, traditional reverse osmosis technology has long been regarded as the most effective method for removing nearly all contaminants from tap water. One such company is AquaTru.
AquaTru sets itself apart from conventional systems with its patented Ultra Reverse Osmosis® Technology. AquaTru effectively purifies your water without the need for complex plumbing or installation. It has earned certification to NSF standards by IAPMO for the removal of 83 contaminants, including PFAS.
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