“Forever chemicals,” also known as PFAS, are everywhere. They’re in our water, our soil and in everyday items like cookware, mascara or waterproof clothing.
And there’s mounting evidence that this family of thousands of synthetic chemicals can increase the risk of some types of cancer, developmental and fertility issues, and other health problems. So it makes sense to limit our exposure to them.
That’s easier said than done.
Public health experts say that it’s ultimately the responsibility of policymakers to adopt tougher rules against the harmful chemicals, and for companies to stop using them. But in the meantime, how can you avoid PFAS, without turning your life upside down?
Here are some basic steps you can take.
Be wary of anything in contact with food.
Consider reducing your reliance on takeout food packaging. Water- and greaseproof food packaging, whether paper, plastic or coated metal, often contain PFAS.
Although big brands like McDonald’s and Whole Foods have committed to get PFAS out of their supply chains, “we’re not quite there yet,” said Liz Hitchcock, policy expert at Toxic-Free Future, an environmental health research and advocacy nonprofit. That means we could still be getting “a side of PFAS with our burger,” she said.