Understanding PFAS: The “Forever Chemicals” Lurking in Plain Sight
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have earned the nickname “forever chemicals” for good reason: they don’t readily break down in the environment or the human body. Used widely in non-stick cookware, waterproof clothing, food packaging, and firefighting foams, PFAS can be found almost everywhere—air, water, soil, and yes, even in our blood.
Growing scientific evidence links PFAS exposure to numerous health risks including reduced immune response, thyroid disease, hormone disruption, liver damage, and certain cancers. While regulatory frameworks are beginning to tighten control over PFAS manufacturing and emissions, individuals still shoulder a critical part of the burden when it comes to daily exposure. The silver lining? There are actionable steps you can take to reduce your personal contact with these pervasive pollutants.
Choose Safer Cookware
That shiny non-stick frying pan might make your mornings easier, but at what cost? Traditional non-stick coatings often contain PTFE, a form of PFAS. When overheated, these coatings can degrade, releasing PFAS fumes into the air and leaching chemicals into food.
What are safer alternatives?
- Cast iron: Durable, naturally non-stick when seasoned, and PFAS-free.
- Stainless steel: Great for searing and sautéing, though it may require more oil.
- Ceramic-coated cookware: Ensure it’s clearly labeled as PFAS-free; not all ceramic coatings are created equal.
Cleaning tip: Avoid harsh abrasives. With ceramic or stainless steel, let pans soak before scrubbing gently with a sponge to preserve long-term usability without reaching for chemical-laced coatings.
Ditch the Takeaway Box—Smart Food Storage Choices
Grease-resistant food packaging—think fast food wrappers, microwave popcorn bags, and pizza boxes—often contains PFAS to prevent oils from seeping through. Unfortunately, that same resistance means the chemicals can migrate into your food.
To reduce this risk, consider:
- Bringing your own reusable containers when ordering takeaway (many local restaurants are happy to accommodate eco-conscious requests).
- Choosing packaged goods from manufacturers who explicitly advertise PFAS-free materials.
- Using glass, stainless steel, or silicone food storage containers instead of plastic wrap or treated paper.
Popcorn craving? Try air-popping kernels instead of microwaving them in potentially PFAS-lined bags—it’s healthier and tastier too.
Filter Your Drinking Water
PFAS contamination in water supplies has become one of the most pressing public health challenges of our time. A 2023 Environmental Working Group (EWG) report estimated that more than 200 million Americans may be exposed to PFAS-contaminated water. The UK is not exempt, with testing revealing PFAS in rivers and reservoirs across the country.
A reliable water filtration system is one of the strongest defenses you can have at home.
Effective solutions include:
- Activated carbon filters: Can reduce some PFAS levels but not all—look for filters tested to NSF/ANSI Standard 53 or 58.
- Reverse osmosis systems: Significantly reduce PFAS concentrations. These systems are more expensive but offer greater protection.
- Whole-house systems: Suitable for households in known contaminated zones, these systems treat all the water coming into your home, not just drinking water.
Check the EPA’s recommendations or your local water authority for updates on system certifications and water quality reports.
Mind Your Clothing and Outdoor Gear
Love hiking? Skiing? Staying dry in a sudden downpour? Many outdoor brands use PFAS-based treatments to make jackets, shoes, and gear water- or stain-resistant. But these coatings can wear off over time, entering waterways or even skin contact zones in the process.
To reduce your exposure:
- Look for eco-labels such as « PFC-free » or “fluorocarbon-free.” Brands like Patagonia, Vaude, and Fjällräven have transitioned away from PFAS in many product lines.
- Carefully reproof gear. When waterproofing your own clothing, use PFAS-free sprays or waxes.
- Wash outdoor gear separately. This avoids spreading PFAS residues to other garments or surfaces.
A good rule of thumb? If something seems too repellant to water, oil, or stains—it might be repelling you too, chemically speaking.
Reevaluate Household Products
PFAS are lurking where you might not expect them—stain-resistant carpets, waterproof mascara, floor wax, dental floss, and even certain cleaning supplies.
Not quite sure how to spot PFAS in the wild? Unfortunately, labels aren’t always transparent. Still, there are workarounds:
- Use online databases like the EWG’s Skin Deep database to check cosmetics and personal care products.
- Avoid anything labeled with terms like “stain-resistant,” “waterproof,” or “long-lasting finish” unless specifically PFAS-free.
- Choose unscented, eco-certified cleaning products that clearly outline their ingredient list.
When in doubt, simpler is better. For cleaning, vinegar, baking soda, and elbow grease remain at the top of the safety pyramid.
Stay Informed—and Ask Questions
Manufacturers aren’t currently required to disclose PFAS use in all products, limiting consumers’ ability to make informed choices. But awareness changes the game.
Want to put pressure in the right places?
- Support brands and retailers opting out of PFAS: Recent campaigns have led giants like McDonald’s and Burger King to commit to phasing out PFAS from packaging. Voting with your wallet sends a clear signal.
- Contact your local MP or council waste department to find out what measures are in place for monitoring PFAS in your area.
- Join community groups advocating for PFAS-free standards in schools, hospitals, and public procurement.
Change begins with questions. If consumers demand transparency, industry and policy will follow suit—history has shown this time and again.
Test When Possible
If you suspect PFAS contamination in your home—whether it’s via water, household goods, or cosmetics—you can opt for individual testing kits through accredited labs. While not free, these kits can provide peace of mind and data to act upon. Some offer:
- Water sampling for known PFAS compounds
- Soil and dust testing in indoor environments
- Analysis of specific consumer products (e.g., dental floss, clothing, cookware)
Choose labs certified under ISO or relevant governmental guidelines to ensure reliability. For larger-scale concerns, collaborative testing with community partners or NGOs may help defray costs and amplify results.
Final Thoughts: Small Actions Add Up
Completely eliminating PFAS exposure in modern society may be nearly impossible—for now. But informed, intentional choices can dramatically reduce your daily encounters with these chemicals and support a broader shift away from their use.
Whether it’s changing your cookware or simply asking your local coffee shop if their cups are PFAS-free, each step you take contributes to a cleaner environment and a healthier body. After all, the small habits we build at home often echo far beyond our front doors—into policy, practice, and planetary health.
Looking to dig deeper? Our Water Filtration section explores cutting-edge solutions for PFAS removal at home, while the Research & Innovations category highlights promising discoveries for future prevention. Stay curious, stay critical—and stay safe.