Friend,
You've probably heard a lot about PFAS over the last few years. Frequently called “forever chemicals,” per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are commonly detected in our bodies, our drinking water, and our everyday household items and foods. PFAS exposure has been linked to a variety of health problems including cancer, damaged immune systems, and harm to the liver, thyroid, and pancreatic function. The problem is widespread and worsening.
So, what's being done about it? (Hint: not much)
Unfortunately, very little. The lack of federal regulations means PFAS are present in a wide range of products, from milk and vegetables to paper foodware, carpets, car washes, and firefighting foams.
Together, what can we do? (Hint: a whole lot!)
You have more power than you might think! By taking proactive steps to reduce PFAS exposure in your home and advocating for stronger regulations, you can make a significant impact.
We suggest a list of easy swaps below. If it feels overwhelming, start by just picking one or two. Some of the highest levels of PFAS come from items that get hot (like food containers or cooking utensils) or get worn down (like cutting boards and sponges), so try starting with those.
Here are some steps you can take to cut down on your PFAS exposure: |
1. Swap Out Household Products |
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| Embrace glass for storing food. This is especially important for hot food. You can get glass containers, clean out old spaghetti-sauce or jam jars to give them a second life, or go with the classic Ball and Weck jars. |
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| Use a cutting board made of wood or bamboo instead of plastic. Swap out plastic cooking utensils, especially those that are black, which have also been found to contain flame retardants. |
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| Use mesh bags with a drawstring instead of plastic bags at the supermarket. These inexpensive bags can be washed with your laundry too. |
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| Use food-safe beeswax-coated fabric wrap to cover sandwiches, wedges of cheese, cut apples, and all the other remnants you don't want to toss. The wrap can be used again and again after a quick wash and rinse and a brief hang dry. You can even make your own! |
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| Brew loose leaf tea or use a tea ball instead of tea bags that use plastics of any sort—either the bag, which could be nylon or other synthetic material, or the seal at the top, which might also be plastic. Bonus: less waste, and better bang for your buck. |
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| Try sponges made from coconut fibers, sheep's wool, or walnut shells (really!) instead of sponges made from plastic. |
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2. Research Before You Buy |
| Use resources like Clearya and Defend Our Health. These nonprofits offer a free phone app and browser extension to help you identify and avoid products containing harmful PFAS chemicals, including textiles, cookware, and personal care items. |
It shouldn't have to be up to individuals to protect our health from toxic chemicals. We need system-wide change to fight this problem. Support policies and initiatives aimed at regulating PFAS and promoting safer alternatives by making sure the EPA hears from you loud and clear. Your voice matters in pushing for industry-wide changes. |
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