7 facts you may not have known about PFAS

01

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are chemicals that effectively repel grease, water, and stains from various surfaces.

02

PFAS can be found in cosmetics, water-repellent products, ski wax, candy packaging, and nonstick kitchen products.

03

Research shows that PFAS may be carcinogenic and are linked to a range of health risks, such as hormone disruption and liver damage.

04

PFAS are called “the Forever Chemicals” because they are extremely difficult for nature to break down.

05

A scratch in a nonstick frying pan containing PFAS releases over 9,000 toxic nanoparticles into your food.

06

There are over 10,000 varieties of PFAS chemicals, and more are constantly being developed.

PFAS are in the process of being banned by the EU, but no legislation has been enacted yet.

9_531f33e7-4d81-4992-9795-ae31e7b2147b.png
IMG_3446_1.jpg

What types of health effects do PFAS have?


Long-term exposure to PFAS has been linked to a wide range of health problems, including increased cholesterol levels, changes in liver enzymes, reduced vaccine response in children, an increased risk of high blood pressure or preeclampsia in pregnant women, developmental effects or delays in children, an increased risk of kidney or testicular cancer, and adverse effects on the immune system.

cascading-ripples-in-the-water.jpg

How do I know if a product contains PFAS?


To determine whether a product contains PFAS, check the ingredient list for terms such as PTFE, polytef, or other phrases containing “perfluoro-” and “polyfluoro-”. Also look for certifications or manufacturer claims on labels stating that the product is “PFAS-free” or does not contain specific PFAS chemicals.

How can you avoid consuming PFAS?


  • To minimize dietary PFAS intake, it is important to be aware of potential sources of contamination. In addition to avoiding fish and shellfish from polluted lakes—especially in Sweden, where crayfish are known to have high PFAS levels—you should also consider the following:

    • Limit your consumption of processed foods, as packaging materials may contain PFAS.
    • Reduce your intake of conventionally grown produce, which may be exposed to PFAS-contaminated soil or water.
    • Check for advisories on local and imported shellfish, as waterways around the world may be contaminated with PFAS.
    • Be cautious with meat and dairy products, as animals can accumulate PFAS from their environment and feed.
  • Kitchen products (frying pans, oven dishes, pots, and baking tins) with a non-stick coating where the manufacturer does not clearly state that they are made without PFAS (PFOS or PFOA alone is not sufficient).

    • Cosmetics and skincare products containing PFAS.
    • Most water-repellent products.
    • Water- and weather-resistant garments and outdoor clothing containing PFAS.
    • Many types of ski wax.
    • Cardboard takeaway containers where you can see the oil “beading” up.
    • Be cautious with firefighting foam.
  • In the short term—nothing. Long-term and repeated exposure to PFAS can lead to a range of health problems due to their persistence and bioaccumulation in the human body. Some of the documented effects include:

    • Elevated cholesterol levels
    • Changes in liver enzymes and liver function
    • Reduced vaccine response in children, suggesting effects on the immune system
    • Developmental effects such as low birth weight and reduced fetal growth
    • A potentially increased risk of kidney and testicular cancer, based on animal studies and some epidemiological data
    • Hormonal disruptions and potential reproductive problems