PFAS Chemicals: What They Are and How to Avoid Them at Home
PFA chemicals, also known as per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances, are a group of synthetic chemicals used in various household products, such as non-stick cookware, food packaging, and stain-resistant fabrics.
What Are PFA Chemicals So Harmful?
PFA chemicals are also known as “forever chemicals” because they are persistent, bioaccumulative, and potentially toxic. These chemicals do not break down easily in the environment, can accumulate in the bodies of humans and animals forever, and have been associated with various adverse health effects. Additionally, PFA chemicals have the potential to contaminate water supplies and ecosystems, posing risks to both environmental and human health. Due to these characteristics, PFA chemicals are a significant concern for public health and environmental protection.
How Are We Exposed To PFAS?
Humans can be exposed to PFA chemicals through various pathways. These chemicals can enter the body through ingesting contaminated food or water, inhaling indoor air or dust containing PFA particles, and absorption through the skin from consumer products such as clothing and carpeting. Additionally, occupational exposure can occur among workers involved in producing or using products containing PFA chemicals. It’s essential to be aware of these exposure pathways to take steps to minimize contact with PFA chemicals and protect human health.
How Does PFAS Affect Us?
These chemicals can harm humans in several ways. They have been linked to various health issues, such as developmental problems in children, decreased fertility, increased cholesterol levels, immune system effects, and an increased risk of certain types of cancer. Additionally, PFA chemicals can persist in the environment and accumulate in the human body over time, leading to potential long-term health risks.
To Avoid Exposure To PFA Chemicals At Home, Consider The Following Tips:
Drinking water: Use a water filter that is certified to remove PFAS. You can also check with your local water system to find your area’s PFAS levels.
Food: Eat less fish or check with your local fish advisories about PFAS levels in local fish and seafood.
Home: PFAS and many other chemicals build up in household dust. Be sure to dust with a wet cloth, mop, and clean furniture and rugs often. Also, replace non-stick and Teflon cookware with stainless steel and cast iron cookware. Pop popcorn in the old-fashioned way with popcorn seeds in a pan. Avoid purchasing clothes, furniture, and flame- and stain-resistant carpets.
Takeout food: Bring your own glass or stainless steel containers to restaurants for takeout or leftovers, or avoid takeout food altogether.
Personal care products: PFAS can be found in personal care products, posing potential health risks. These chemicals are often used in cosmetics, shampoos, and lotions to repel water and oil, and to create a smooth, even application. PFAS can accumulate in the body over time and have been linked to various health issues, including hormone disruption and certain cancers. To reduce exposure to forever chemicals in personal care products, it’s important to read ingredient labels and choose products that are PFAS-free. Opting for natural and organic personal care products can also help minimize the presence of these harmful chemicals in our daily routines.
Clothes: PFAS are found in raincoats, shoes, cosmetics, mattress pads, printed natural and synthetic fabrics, and textiles labeled as water—or stain-repellents. Making the switch to non-toxic clothing is not only a healthier choice for yourself, but it can also contribute to a cleaner and safer environment for everyone. The first step to avoiding chemicals in clothes is to choose to avoid synthetic fabrics and buy from trusted brands.
Learn more about how to reduce exposure to chemicals in your day-to day life in my book “A Practical Guide To Zero Waste For Families”.