7 facts you might not have known about PFAS

01

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

02

PFAS can be found in beauty products, water-repellent items, ski wax, candy wrappers, and kitchenware with non-stick coating.

03

Research shows that PFAS can cause cancer and is linked to a range of health risks, such as hormone disturbances and liver damage.

04

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

05

A pan made of non-stick material that contains PFAS releases over 9,000 poisonous tiny particles into your food.

06

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

PFAS are being banned by the EU, but nothing has yet been legislated.

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What kinds of health effects do PFAS have?


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

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How do I know if a product contains PFAS?


To determine if a product contains PFAS, check the ingredient list for terms such as PTFE, polytetrafluoroethylene, 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 does one avoid consuming PFAS?


  • To minimize PFAS intake through food, it is important to be aware of potential sources of contamination. Besides 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 consumption of processed foods, as packaging materials may contain PFAS.
    • Reduce intake of conventionally grown products that may be exposed to PFAS-contaminated soil or water.
    • Check for advice on local and imported shellfish, as waterways worldwide can be polluted 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 molds) with non-stick coating where the manufacturer does not clearly state that they are made without PFAS acronym (PFOS or PFOA is not enough).

    • Cosmetics and skin care products that contain PFAS.
    • Most water-repellent agents.
    • Water- and weather-resistant garments and functional clothing that contain PFAS.
    • Many types of ski wax.
    • Take-away containers made of cardboard where you can see how the oil "beads" up.
    • Be careful with fire-extinguishing foam.
  • In the short term - nothing. Long-term and repeated intake of PFAS can lead to a range of health problems due to their persistence and buildup 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, indicating effects on the immune system
    • Developmental effects such as low birth weight and reduced growth in the fetus
    • Potentially increased risk of kidney and testicle cancer based on animal studies and some population data
    • Hormonal disturbances and potential reproductive problems