You might not have heard of them, but PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are quietly lurking in everyday items, from your waterproof jacket to your non-stick frying pan and they’re raising serious concerns for both our health and the environment. In this post, we’ll explain what PFAS are, why they’ve earned the nickname “forever chemicals,” and most importantly, how you can reduce your exposure. Photo by Cooker King on Unsplash What Are PFAS? PFAS are a group of over 12,000 synthetic chemicals used since the 1940s to make products resistant to water, grease, oil, and heat. You’ll find them in: Non-stick cookware (e.g. Teflon frying pans) Waterproof or water-repellent clothing Food packaging (especially fast food wrappers and takeaway containers) Stain-resistant fabrics and carpets Some cosmetics and personal care products They’re known as “forever chemicals” because they don’t naturally break down in the environment or in our bodies. Once they’re here, they tend to stay. Why S...
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