Cancer-causing “forever chemicals” may be getting into our food through its packaging, according to a new study that looked at records from around the world.
what's happening?
A team of researchers looked at food packaging records from around the world and found the presence of 68 per- and polyfluoroalkyl compounds, also known as PFAS or “forever chemicals,” 61 of which are specifically banned in food packaging, Phys.org reported.
But researchers found little evidence of how or why the chemicals got there.
Why is this research important?
There are thousands of PFAS compounds, and this group of chemicals has been linked to adverse health effects, including increased cancer risk, reduced ability of the body's immune system to fight infection, disruption of the body's natural hormones, delayed development in children, increased risk of obesity, and reduced fertility.
These compounds are all around us: At least 70 million Americans are exposed to PFAS through their drinking water systems, for example, and the Environmental Protection Agency estimates that this number could reach 200 million once more testing is completed – roughly 60% of the population.
These chemicals are found in everyday products like cosmetics, dental floss, detergents, Teflon-coated cookware, and even food.
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What is being done about PFAS?
PFAS are highly persistent in the environment and cannot be avoided entirely, but steps can be taken to reduce exposure.
For example, studies have found that people who cook at home are at lower risk of exposure to PFAS because these chemicals are found in food packaging in takeout containers. So when you eat out, bringing your own food storage containers is good for the environment. You can also protect yourself by removing food from takeout containers as quickly as possible.
You can prioritize purchasing products from PFAS-free brands, and Walmart recently made this easier for shoppers by introducing its online Clean Beauty Shop, which bans more than 1,200 harmful ingredients, including PFAS.
Meanwhile, scientists are finding new ways to remove PFAS from drinking water. For example, one group of researchers is investigating an electrochemical process that can defluoridate these harmful toxins.
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