Understanding PFAs and Taking Action

You might not be aware of it, but per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAs), often known as "forever chemicals," are all around us. In this post, we'll explore PFAs, understand why they're a cause for concern, and most importantly, learn practical steps to reduce our exposure.

What are PFAs?

PFAs, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are synthetic chemicals that have gained attention due to their remarkable durability. They represent a category of synthetic compounds that includes well-known variants like PFOA, PFOS, and GenX. They've earned the nickname "forever chemicals" because they don't break down naturally in the environment, which raises concerns about their gradual accumulation in our bodies. PFOA and PFOS, in particular, emerged as the most widely utilized subtypes within this group, and their widespread usage began in the 1940s. You may have heard of them with their association with nonstick cookware like Teflon, but they are commonly found in a lot of our everyday products. The CDC states that they are found in nearly all Americans blood that was tested.

Why Should you Care?

Exposure to PFAs has been linked to various health problems, including cancer, thyroid disease, autoimmune diseases, developmental delays, fertility issues, liver and kidney damage, weakened immune systems, and more. The scope of the problem is evident from the over 6,000 lawsuits related to PFAs filed since 2005.

The number of different PFA compounds is extensive, with estimates suggesting that there are tens of thousands of individual compounds within this group. Often times a product will remove only one of the many PFAs from its products and will label it as PTFE-free for example. In these cases it doesn't necessarily mean that it is free of other PFAs compounds. 

PFAs in Products and Lawsuits

One recent lawsuit involved Simply Tropical, a juice brand that claimed to be "all natural" but was found to contain PFAs at levels far exceeding the federal drinking water limit. Similarly, other companies like Thinx, a manufacturer of underwear, have faced legal action related to PFAs. The challenge with these lawsuits is that, since PFAs are largely unregulated, companies can't be fully held accountable. However, as consumers, we have the power to make choices on what we buy and don't buy. 

PFAs in Our Water

Perhaps the most concerning aspect of PFAs exposure is the presence of these chemicals in our water. Tap water is often contaminated, and our filtration systems may not effectively remove all PFAs. Even bottled water isn't immune, with a test revealing PFAs in 43 out of 47 bottled waters. 

What Products Have PFAs and What Steps Can You Take to Remove PFAs from Your Life?

Fortunately, there are actionable measures you can implement to minimize your exposure to PFAs, despite their pervasive presence. Given their lingering presence in the body for 5-7 years, the crucial strategy is to proactively lower your exposure. A primary step involves avoiding products labeled as "non-stick," "grease-free," or possessing water-resistant and stain-resistant properties. We will do deep dives on each of these with swaps in their own posts but here are some quick tips for now:

Here are a few practical measures to reduce your risk:

1. Switch to Stainless Steel Cookware: Replace non-stick pans with stainless steel. If you cannot make the switch, ensure that your non-stick pans are free from scratches. If they are scratched, it's best to dispose of them.

2. Choose PFAs-Free Dental Floss: Many dental flosses are coated with PFAs, typically it is what makes the dental floss “glide”. Opt for PFAs-free alternatives. I like Smart Life Co.

3. Transition from Plastic to Glass Tupperware: Minimize your use of plastic containers and bags, particularly for food storage. Look for glass alternatives, which are safer and more environmentally friendly. If the top is plastic that is okay just wait for the food to cool down before putting the lid on.

4. Avoid Heating Plastic: Never heat food or drinks in plastic containers or bags, don’t put hot food in plastic, and refrain from microwaving plastic. If you do have plastic tupperware, cups, plates, etc avoid running them in the dishwasher. This also goes for rice and veggies that come in plastic bags that require microwaving them or single serve mac and cheese in plastic for example.

5. Limit Carbonated/Sparkling Water: Reduce or eliminate your consumption of carbonated waters, especially if you have thyroid conditions. Brands like Topo Chico, Bubly, Polar, La Croix, Perrier, and Canada Dry have PFAs - Switch to brands that do NOT have PFAs like Pellegrino, Spindrift, Sound, Mountain Valley, and Waterloo.

6. Invest in a Water Filter: PFAs are commonly found in our tap water. If possible, invest in a reliable water filter system. Keep in mind that some common filters, like those in refrigerators or Brita pitchers, may not fully remove PFAs. Steps to take:  1. Avoid drinking tap water 2. Add filters to your fridge like Hydroviv or Greenfield or 3. Get a pitcher that filters out PFAs like Clearly Filtered or Aqua Tru.

7. Butter Wrapping: Butter wrappers, particularly those designed to be grease-resistant, can contain PFAs. For butter specifically avoid brands like Kerrygold, Maple Hill, Organic Valley, Miyokos, and Kirklands - Switch to Clover, Horizon, Straus, 365 or Trader Joes. I also prefer 100% grass-fed dairy/meat.

8. Fast Food Wrapping & To-Go Containers: Fast food packaging, such as burger wrappers and disposable containers, may contain PFAs. Burger King, Chick-fil-a, McDonalds, and a bunch of popular brand wrappers were positive for PFA. I would avoid fast food in general but if you do consume fast food, transfer the items to a glass or ceramic plate to minimize direct contact with the packaging. Same for when you order take-out try to avoid places that put hot food in those black plastic bowls or containers.

9. Air Fryers, Rice Cookers, CrockPots: Some air fryer accessories, like ones with non-stick baskets or trays (just like with pots and pans) contain PFAs. Use air fryer accessories made of stainless steel or other PFAs-free materials to avoid potential exposure. You can also use unbleached parchment paper in the meantime. Rice Cookers & CrockPots that are non-stick also have PFAs.

10. Cooking Utensils: Kitchen utensils with non-stick coatings can release PFAs when used at high temperatures. Opt for stainless steel, wooden, or silicone cooking utensils to reduce the risk.

11. Workout Clothes: Some workout clothes, particularly those with water- or stain-resistant coatings, may contain PFAs. Look for workout clothing made from natural or PFAs-free materials like cotton.

12. Microwave Popcorn Bags: Microwave popcorn bags have PFAs in the grease-resistant lining. Choose popcorn kernels and use a microwave-safe glass or ceramic bowl for popping corn instead. 

13. Cosmetics and Personal Care Products: Some cosmetics and personal care products contain PFAs, particularly those with long-lasting or waterproof properties. Check product labels and opt for PFAs-free alternatives. Lipstick and Mascara have the highest levels of PFAs.

14. Non-Stick Baking Pans: Non-stick baking pans may release PFAs when exposed to high temperatures. Consider using stainless steel or glass baking pans as alternatives.

15. Period Underwear and Tampons: Check the materials used in period underwear. Some brands may use fabrics treated with water-resistant coatings, which may contain PFAs. Opt for period underwear made from organic or PFAs-free materials. For tampons, thoroughly inspect product labels and ingredient lists for any mention of "fluorinated" or "non-stick" materials, as these may indicate the presence of PFAs. Consider using organic tampons made from natural materials. I love the brand Lola.

16. Contact lenses: Contact lenses are commonly crafted from a blend of poly(methylmethacrylate), silicones, and fluoropolymers, with the latter often being PFAS. Most popular brands of contact lenses had PFAs in them. 

17. Paper and Plastic Straws: Some paper products may be treated with water-resistant coatings, which can contain PFAS. To minimize PFAS exposure, opt for paper straws from brands that explicitly state they are PFAS-free. Alternatively, opt for stainless steel or glass straws.

18. Pharmaceuticals: There are many pharmaceuticals that also contain PFAs in them.

19. Recycled Plastic: Recycled plastic products can sometimes contain PFAs if the original plastics used in the recycling process were treated with these chemicals. Examples include Coca-Cola bottles and Heinz mayo that are made from 100% recycled plastic.

20. Cake and Pizza Cardboard: Cardboard used for cakes and pizzas can sometimes be treated with water-resistant coatings to prevent grease from seeping through. These coatings can have PFAs.

21. Pesticides: A majority of pesticides contain PFAs. These compounds can help pesticides adhere to plant surfaces and resist wash-off by rain or irrigation. Consider choosing organic produce and products when possible, as they are less likely to have been treated with PFAs-containing pesticides.

22. Carpets and Rugs: Carpets and rugs treated with stain-resistant chemicals could contain PFAs. When selecting flooring options, consider untreated or natural alternatives like wool or cotton.

23. Fish Contamination: PFAS contamination in water sources can lead to the presence of these chemicals in certain fish species. To reduce PFAS exposure, it's advisable to select fish with lower mercury levels like salmon and sardines, both wild-caught and sustainably farmed fish can be good choices, and focus on source quality and certifications such as the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) for responsible fishing practices.

24. Mattress Treatments: Some mattress manufacturers use PFAS in flame-retardant treatments and waterproof options to address accidents and spills. When purchasing a mattress, inquire about the materials and treatments used.

25. Toilet paper: Toilet paper itself is a direct source of PFAs exposure, but also flushing these products with PFAs-containing additives can indirectly contribute to contamination in septic systems or water treatment facilities. I like the brand Caboo.

Some Positive Progress:

Thank you to the California Assembly Bill 1200 (AB 1200) that now requires manufacturers of cookware and food packaging to disclose the presence of certain chemicals. The purpose of this bill is to provide consumers with information about potentially harmful chemicals that may be present in these products. Under AB 1200, manufacturers are required to disclose the use of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in cookware and food packaging sold in California. If any brand sells in CA they must list it on their website so this is beneficial to everyone. 

Conclusion:

PFAs pose a genuine threat to our health due to their persistence in the environment and their presence in various everyday products. While awareness of the issue is growing and some regions considering bans on these chemicals, personal action remains crucial in the meantime. By following the outlined steps to limit your exposure to PFAs, you can take control of your health. Remember, while you can't change the past, you can certainly shape a healthier future for yourself and your loved ones.

This is not to overwhelm you but inform you of the toxins around us. There is no way to fully avoid PFAs but these small changes in your daily routines can lead to significant improvements in reducing PFAs exposure. Living a healthy lifestyle with a diet rich in nutrient-containing foods can support overall health and may indirectly contribute to a healthier body that can better manage potential environmental toxins.

There are different tests you can take to test certain PFA levels in your blood if you have concerns.