Talk About PFAS: Those "Forever Chemicals" in Our Lives
- Dov Glazer
- Jun 7
- 3 min read
Let's chat about something that's been making headlines and might be quietly present in more of our daily lives than we realize: PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). Now, before your eyes glaze over at the chemical names, let's break it down in a friendly way.
You might have heard them called "forever chemicals," and there's a good reason for that nickname! These are a large family of man-made chemicals that have been around for decades. They're basically superstars at resisting water, grease, and stains, which made them incredibly useful in a wide array of products. Think about things like:
Non-stick cookware (yes, your trusty Teflon pan!)
Waterproof clothing (rain jackets, anyone?)
Stain-resistant carpets and furniture
Food packaging (think fast-food wrappers, microwave popcorn bags)
Some cosmetics and personal care products
Firefighting foams (especially a concern around military bases and airports)
Sounds pretty handy, right? The catch is, their "forever" quality means they don't break down easily in the environment or in our bodies. This persistence means they can accumulate over time, and that's where the health implications come into play.
Why the Buzz Around PFAS?
Over the years, scientific research has started to shed more light on the potential health effects linked to exposure to certain PFAS. It's a complex area, as there are thousands of different PFAS, but some of the more commonly studied ones have been associated with:
Increased cholesterol levels
Impacts on the immune system, potentially making us less responsive to vaccines
Thyroid issues
Liver changes
Reproductive and developmental effects, such as higher blood pressure in pregnant women and lower birth weight in babies
And possible links to certain cancers like kidney and testicular cancer.
It's important to remember that most major manufacturers have phased out some of the older, well-known PFAS like PFOA (which was historically used in Teflon). However, other PFAS are still in use, and ongoing research is helping us understand their full impact.
So, What Can We Do? Simple Swaps for a Happier Home!
Feeling a little overwhelmed? Don't worry! While it's nearly impossible to avoid PFAS entirely, there are some friendly, actionable steps we can take to reduce our exposure in our everyday lives:
Re-evaluate Your Cookware: If your non-stick pans are scratched or old, consider switching to alternatives like cast iron, stainless steel, or ceramic. If you love your non-stick, avoid overheating it and don't preheat an empty pan.
Be Mindful of Food Packaging: Fast food wrappers, microwave popcorn bags, and some takeout containers can be treated with PFAS. Try to transfer food to your own reusable containers when possible, or simply air-pop your own popcorn!
Filter Your Water: PFAS have been found in drinking water in many areas. Consider investing in a water filter for your tap that is certified to remove PFAS (activated carbon and reverse osmosis filters are often effective).
Check Your Clothing and Furniture Labels: Look for items that are not marketed as "stain-resistant" or "waterproof" unless they specifically state they are PFAS-free. Many brands are now offering safer alternatives.
Dust Regularly: PFAS can settle in household dust, so a good vacuuming with a HEPA filter and damp dusting can help keep your home cleaner.
Read Personal Care Product Ingredients: Some cosmetics and personal care items might contain PFAS. Look for ingredients that include "fluoro" or "PTFE" and consider opting for brands committed to being PFAS-free.
The good news is that awareness is growing, and manufacturers are increasingly looking for safer alternatives. By making small, conscious choices, we can all contribute to a healthier home and a healthier planet.
What are your thoughts on PFAS? Have you made any swaps in your home to reduce exposure? Share your tips by signing up for the Mindful Feasting Newsletter. Thanks!
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