The Truth About “Forever Chemicals”: What You Need To Know

Introduction

Imagine toxic chemicals that linger in the environment and our bodies for decades, refusing to break down. These are PFAS chemicals, often called “forever chemicals,” and they pose a growing concern for both human health and ecology. In fact, they are found in everyday products like nonstick cookware, waterproof clothing, and even personal care products like dental floss. They have silently integrated into our daily lives. Their resistance to heat, water, and oil has made these toxic substances revolutionary in manufacturing, but these same qualities now raise serious health concerns. Therefore, as we learn more about their persistence and potential health risks, understanding what they are and how they impact us becomes essential. 

In this post, I’ll first discuss the origins of PFAS chemicals and how they’ve become so widespread in consumer products. Next, I’ll examine the challenges they present, such as contaminating our food packaging, tap water, and posing risks to our health, including thyroid disease, liver damage, and effects on the immune system. Then, I’ll explore the latest efforts to address their dangers, including mitigating their effects, cleaning up PFAS contamination, and implementing regulations by agencies like the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Ultimately, by shedding light on these persistent pollutants, I hope to equip you with the knowledge to make informed decisions and advocate for a safer environment.

What Are “Forever Chemicals”?

So, what exactly are these “forever chemicals” we’ve been talking about? Well, they refer to a large group of toxic substances known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS chemicals). And you’ve probably encountered them without even realizing it. These chemicals are famous for their incredible resistance to heat, water, and oil. Basically, their unique chemical structure makes them practically indestructible, which is why they’ve been so widely used in various products.

PFAS chemicals were first developed back in the 1940s, and it didn’t take long for manufacturers to notice their exceptional properties. Soon enough, companies started incorporating them into products that needed to withstand extreme conditions.  Over the years, PFAS usage expanded dramatically, finding their way into both industrial applications and everyday consumer products.

The secret behind PFAS persistence lies in their chemical makeup. They possess strong carbon-fluorine bonds, which are among the strongest in organic chemistry. These PFAS molecules are incredibly stable due to these bonds. Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) are examples of legacy PFAS that have been widely used. What does this mean for us? These bonds require a lot of energy to break, making PFAS highly resistant to degradation. In other words, they don’t break down under typical environmental conditions like sunlight, water, or microbial activity. That’s why they’re called “forever chemicals”—they stick around much longer than we’d like.

Where Are Forever Chemicals Found?

Everyday Products

As I mentioned, PFAS chemicals have become common in many household products due to their protective qualities. PFAS-based non-stick coatings are used on non-stick cookware, making cooking and cleaning easier. Waterproof clothing, like rain jackets and outdoor gear, relies on PFAS treatments to keep fabrics dry. Stain-resistant fabrics for furniture and carpets use these chemicals to repel spills, extending the life of the products.

Additionally, food packaging materials, such as grease-resistant food wrappers and microwave popcorn bags, often contain PFAS to prevent oil and moisture from leaking through. Even some personal care products, like certain types of dental floss and cosmetics, may contain PFAS compounds. Ski wax is another example of an everyday product that can contain PFAS, helping skis glide smoothly over snow.

Industrial Uses

In various industries, PFAS chemicals play critical roles. For example, fire-fighting foams, especially those designed to combat petroleum-based fires, contain PFAS because they effectively spread over liquid fuels and suppress flames. This has led to contamination near military bases and airports where these foams are used. The electronics manufacturing sector uses PFAS in producing semiconductors and circuit boards, benefiting from their insulating properties and resistance to heat. Likewise, the aerospace industry incorporates PFAS into hydraulic fluids, wire coatings, and fuel additives, ensuring reliability under extreme temperatures and pressures.

Presence and Persistence of Forever Chemicals in the Environment

The widespread use of PFAS has led to their contamination in the environment. They have been detected in surface water sources like rivers, lakes, and groundwater, often due to industrial discharge or runoff from fire-fighting foam usage. Soil contamination occurs near manufacturing sites, airports, military bases, and landfills where PFAS-containing products are disposed of improperly.

Even the air isn’t immune; PFAS can become airborne during manufacturing processes and travel long distances before settling, leading to global dispersion. Moreover, because they resist degradation, once PFAS enter the environment they remain there indefinitely, accumulating over time. This persistence leads to contaminated water supplies, affecting public water systems and even tap water in some areas. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has recognized PFAS contamination as a significant environmental concern and is working on establishing new guidelines.

Health Implications of Forever Chemicals

Bioaccumulation of Forever Chemicals in Living Organisms

Beyond persisting in the environment, PFAS chemicals have a tendency to accumulate in living organisms, including humans and wildlife. PFAS exposure occurs through consuming contaminated food or contaminated water, inhaling polluted air, or skin contact with PFAS-containing products. These products can include nonstick cookware, food packaging, personal care products, and other everyday products. Once inside the human body, PFAS bind to proteins and are not easily excreted, leading to accumulation over years. Consequently, this bioaccumulation raises serious health concerns, as higher levels of PFAS may increase the risk of adverse outcomes.

Human Health Risks of Forever Chemicals

Exposure to PFAS has been linked to various health risks in humans. One of the most serious concerns is an increased risk of certain types of cancer, including kidney cancer and testicular cancer. Studies have found that higher levels of PFAS in the blood of people correlate with a greater likelihood of developing these cancers.

Hormone disruption is another significant concern. PFAS chemicals can interfere with the body’s endocrine system, which regulates hormones. The result can be thyroid disease and reproductive issues, such as decreased fertility and irregular menstrual cycles.

The immune system may also be affected. PFAS exposure has been associated with reduced vaccine effectiveness and a higher susceptibility to infections. Moreover, some research suggests that elevated PFAS levels correspond with lower antibody responses in children following routine immunizations.

Another major health concern is the impact of these toxic chemicals on development. Exposure during pregnancy and early childhood can affect growth, learning, and behavior. This may lead to issues such as low birth weight, developmental delays, and reduced cognitive function.

Vulnerable Populations

Certain groups are more susceptible to the effects of PFAS exposure. For instance, pregnant women and infants are at higher risk for health problems because exposure during critical developmental periods can have more severe impacts. Moreover, PFAS can cross the placenta and are present in breast milk, potentially affecting fetal and infant growth.

Additionally, communities near industrial sites where PFAS are manufactured or used may experience higher levels of exposure. Contaminated drinking water supplies due to industrial discharge or fire-fighting foam runoff can increase health risks for these populations, especially near military bases.

Moreover, workers in industries that produce or use PFAS may also face elevated exposure. Therefore, protective measures and regular health screenings are important for these individuals to mitigate potential health effects.

Environmental Impact of Forever Chemicals

Ecosystem Disruption

PFAS chemicals pose significant threats to wildlife across various ecosystems. In aquatic environments, these toxic substances accumulate in fish, leading to reproductive issues such as reduced egg production and hatching success. Birds that consume contaminated fish may experience thinner eggshells and lower chick survival rates due to PFAS exposure.

Immune system suppression is another serious concern. Animal studies have shown that PFAS exposure can weaken the immune responses of animals, making them more susceptible to diseases. For instance, seals and dolphins with high levels of PFAS have demonstrated impaired immune functions, leading to increased mortality.

Food Chain Contamination

Bioaccumulation and Biomagnification of Forever Chemicals

PFAS chemicals tend to build up in organisms over time, a process known as bioaccumulation. Small aquatic organisms absorb PFAS from contaminated water and sediment. When predators consume these organisms, the PFAS concentrations increase—a phenomenon called biomagnification. The result is that top predators, including humans, can accumulate significant levels of PFAS in their bodies through their diet, posing health risks.

Exposure to Forever Chemicals Through Contaminated Fertilizers

Another important source of PFAS exposure is through contaminated fertilizers. Biosolids and compost made from sewage sludge from wastewater treatment plants can contain high levels of PFAS. When farmers use these materials as fertilizers on agricultural land, they inadvertently introduce PFAS into the soil.

Crops grown in contaminated soil can absorb PFAS through their roots. Leafy vegetables, grains, and root crops are particularly susceptible. This absorption leads to PFAS entering the food supply, affecting anyone who consumes these plants.

Moreover, animals grazing on contaminated land or fed with affected crops can accumulate PFAS in their meat, milk, and eggs. As a result, PFAS can also enter the human diet through animal products, further increasing PFAS exposure levels.

Several regions have been affected by PFAS-contaminated fertilizers. For instance, farms in Maine using contaminated biosolids elevated PFAS levels in the soil and water. This led to high concentrations in milk from local dairy farms. Similar issues have arisen in parts of Europe, where the use of sewage sludge in agriculture has led to widespread soil contamination.

The Global Reach of Forever Chemicals

Long-Range Transport

The Role of Industry in the Production of and Environmental Contamination by Forever Chemicals

Some of the Largest PFAS Producers

Understanding which chemical companies remain the largest producers of PFAS compounds is essential for addressing the global challenges these persistent toxic substances pose. While some firms have committed to phasing out certain types of PFAS, others remain significant producers. Here are a few of the major companies involved in PFAS production:

Chemours Company, formed as a spinoff from DuPont in 2015, inherited DuPont’s fluorochemicals business. It continues to manufacture fluoropolymers like Teflon™ and other PFAS-based products used in coatings, refrigeration, and electronics. These products contribute to PFAS contamination in the environment.

Daikin Industries, a Japanese multinational corporation, is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of air conditioning equipment and fluorochemicals. In fact, it produces a range of PFAS compounds used in fluoropolymers, refrigerants, and surface treatments. Their products are found in many consumer products worldwide.

Solvay, a Belgian chemical company with a global presence, specializes in specialty polymers and chemicals. It manufactures fluorinated materials, including PFAS compounds used in high-performance plastics and coatings. These materials can lead to PFAS pollution if not properly managed.

Similarly, Arkema, a French specialty chemicals and advanced materials company, produces fluorochemicals. These toxic chemicals are commonly used in refrigeration, air conditioning, and specialty polymers, contributing to potential PFAS exposure.

Meanwhile, Dongyue Group, a Chinese company specializing in fluorine and silicone materials, produces various types of PFAS used in industrial applications. Some of these PFAS chemicals can contaminate surface water and water supplies if not handled correctly.

Lastly, HaloPolymer, a Russian company, is one of the world’s largest producers of fluoropolymers. Among these are polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and other fluorinated materials used in coatings, sealants, and industrial applications. The widespread use of their products raises concerns about PFAS contamination in the environment.

Industrial Pollution Incidents

Industrial activities have significantly contributed to PFAS contamination, leading to widespread human exposure.

DuPont’s Washington Works plant in West Virginia released perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) into the Ohio River and improperly disposed of waste, contaminating local water supplies and exposing around 70,000 residents. As a result, this led to health issues such as kidney cancer and testicular cancer, ultimately resulting in DuPont settling lawsuits for $671 million. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has since increased scrutiny on such toxic chemicals.

In Minnesota, the 3M Company disposed of PFAS waste in landfills, leading to groundwater contamination and affecting over 125,000 residents. In 2018, 3M settled with the state for $850 million to fund remediation efforts and address the health concerns associated with PFAS exposure.

Chemours, a DuPont spinoff, discharged PFAS compounds like GenX into the Cape Fear River, North Carolina, contaminating drinking water for up to 500,000 residents. As a result, regulatory agencies fined Chemours and mandated cleanup efforts due to the PFAS contamination. This incident raised significant public health concerns and highlighted the need for stricter water standards.

PFAS contamination from firefighting foams has impacted communities near US military bases and airports, potentially exposing millions of people to these toxic substances. In response, the military is transitioning to PFAS-free foams and initiating cleanup efforts to protect public water systems and reduce PFAS pollution.

In Michigan, Wolverine World Wide disposed of PFAS-containing waste, contaminating groundwater and affecting several thousand residents. Consequently, legal settlements led to water filtration installations and environmental remediation to address the harmful health effects and restore safe tap water.

The Regulatory Landscape for Forever Chemicals

Corporate Accountability

Chemical companies have played a significant role in the PFAS crisis, often failing to take responsibility for the environmental contamination and health risks associated with these toxic chemicals. Despite mounting evidence of the harmful effects of PFAS, many corporations continued their production and use, contributing to widespread PFAS pollution. Companies like 3M and DuPont de Nemours, Inc. have faced legal actions due to their past PFAS production and contamination. While some have announced plans to phase out PFAS, these actions come after decades of damage. Transparency about PFAS use has been limited, and proactive measures to reduce environmental impact have often been insufficient.

Holding these corporations accountable requires more than minimal efforts; it demands a comprehensive commitment to eliminating PFAS production, cleaning up existing contamination, and addressing the health risks posed to the public. True corporate responsibility involves not just acknowledging the problem but taking decisive action to rectify it. Without substantial changes, the burden of PFAS pollution will continue to impact the environment and human health for generations to come.

PFAS Compounds Require Comprehensive Regulation

You might think of PFAS chemicals as a single substance, but they are actually around 12,000 different compounds known as polyfluoroalkyl substances. This diversity makes identifying and determining harmful ones incredibly complicated. Each PFAS compound has unique properties, behaving differently in the environment and our human body.

Not all types of PFAS are equal. Some, like perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), are well-studied and known to pose significant health risks. However, many other PFAS remain poorly understood, challenging scientists and regulators like the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to assess their safety.

The sheer number of PFAS chemicals complicates detection. Traditional tests identify some PFAS but miss many others. Consequently, contaminated sites and consumer products may go unnoticed because we can’t detect every PFAS. Moreover, the industry develops new PFAS compounds as substitutes. These next-generation PFAS may differ but remain persistent toxic chemicals with potential health concerns. Keeping up with new compounds adds complexity for regulators and researchers.

All this means addressing the PFAS problem isn’t as simple as banning one chemical. Instead, it requires comprehensive strategies to manage an entire class of evolving substances. This complexity underscores the need for ongoing research, better detection, and adaptive regulations to protect public health and the environment.

Government Actions

Regulation of PFAS chemicals in the United States has evolved, with notable differences between administrations.

The Trump administration made no effort to establish enforceable federal standards for PFAS. Instead, it released a PFAS Action Plan in 2019 focused solely on research and monitoring, with no steps taken toward implementing mandatory regulations. This plan did not set any enforceable limits for these toxic substances, leaving significant health concerns unaddressed.

In contrast, the Biden administration has advanced enforceable federal drinking water standards for PFAS. Moreover, they have proposed designating certain types of PFAS, such as perfluorooctanoic acid and perfluorooctane sulfonate, as hazardous substances under the Superfund law. However, these steps have not fully passed through Congress. Meanwhile, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under Biden has been actively working on PFAS regulation. They have increased funding for research, PFAS testing, and cleanup efforts to address PFAS contamination in tap water and public water systems. This includes efforts to reduce PFAS exposure near military bases, where firefighting foam has been used extensively.

International bodies are also working to enact tough regulations. The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) proposes restricting the manufacture and use of PFAS under the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) regulation. In addition, some European countries, like Norway and Germany, are advocating for a comprehensive ban on non-essential uses of PFAS to protect environmental and human health. The Stockholm Convention, an international agency, has also listed certain PFAS for elimination due to their status as toxic chemicals with harmful health effects on the human body.

Mitigation and Remediation Strategies

Technological Solutions

Filtration and Removal

Advances in filtration technologies offer effective ways to reduce PFAS levels in contaminated water. Activated carbon filters, both granular and powdered, are widely used to adsorb PFAS molecules. These filters trap the chemicals on their surfaces, removing them from the water supply. Ion exchange resins provide another solution by swapping harmful PFAS ions with safer ones, effectively capturing the contaminants. Water treatment plants are increasingly adopting these methods to protect public health.

Emerging Remediation Techniques

Scientists are developing innovative methods to break down PFAS compounds and eliminate them from the environment. One promising approach is the use of advanced oxidation processes (AOPs). These techniques employ powerful oxidizing agents like UV light and ozone to degrade PFAS molecules.

Electrochemical oxidation is another effective method. It applies electrical currents to contaminated water, generating reactive species that dismantle PFAS chemicals.

Thermal treatment involves using high temperatures to destroy PFAS in soil and waste, effectively breaking down these resilient compounds.

Moreover, plasma-based technologies can remove PFAS from contaminated water. These methods use non-thermal plasma reactors to create high-energy electrons that collide with water molecules, producing reactive species capable of breaking down PFAS.

Finally, researchers are exploring bioremediation through microbial and enzymatic methods that could naturally degrade PFAS over a long time.

Preventive Measures

Product Substitutes for Forever Chemicals

Developing safer, biodegradable alternatives to PFAS-containing products is crucial for long-term mitigation. Manufacturers are researching new materials that provide similar benefits without environmental persistence. For example, plant-based coatings for food packaging and textiles are emerging as viable options, reducing reliance on PFAS. Switching to non-PFAS firefighting foams at military bases and airports also helps prevent future PFAS contamination.

Agricultural Practices

Farmers can take steps to prevent PFAS contamination in agriculture:

• Testing Biosolids: Before applying biosolids or compost, testing for PFAS contamination ensures that these materials won’t introduce pollutants into the soil.
• Using Clean Fertilizers: Opting for fertilizers certified as PFAS-free helps maintain soil health and prevent crop uptake of harmful chemicals.
• Monitoring Water Sources: Using irrigation water that has been tested and treated for PFAS reduces the risk of contaminating crops.
• Advocating for Safe Practices: Collaborating with local authorities to promote regulations against using contaminated biosolids protects both the environment and public health. 

What Can Consumers Do?

Practical Steps to Avoid Forever Chemicals

You can take several actions to minimize your PFAS exposure and reduce health risks associated with these toxic chemicals:

• Choose PFAS-free cookware: Opt for cookware made from stainless steel, cast iron, or ceramic instead of nonstick cookware that may contain PFAS coatings. This reduces your exposure during cooking.

• Select safer textiles: Look for clothing and fabrics labeled as PFAS-free, and avoid items marketed as stain-resistant or waterproof clothing unless they specify the absence of PFAS chemicals.

• Avoid certain food packaging: Reduce the use of fast-food wrappers, microwave popcorn bags, and other grease-resistant packaging that may contain PFAS chemicals. This helps minimize your exposure through your diet.

• Avoid using plastic food storage containers: Instead, use glass containers for storing food, especially hot meals. Consider beeswax-coated wraps to cover sandwiches, cheese, or fruit instead of plastic wrap. This reduces contact with PFAS chemicals that may be present in some plastics.

• Filter your water: Install activated carbon water filters or reverse osmosis systems to reduce PFAS levels in your tap water. This helps ensure that your drinking water is free from contaminated water containing PFAS.

• Check personal care products: Some cosmetics and dental floss may contain PFAS chemicals. Review ingredient lists and choose products from companies that avoid these toxic substances.

• Use free apps from Clearya and Defend Our Health: These tools can help you identify and avoid products containing harmful PFAS chemicals, including textiles, cookware, and personal care products. This empowers you to make safer choices and reduce health risks.

Support Sustainable Agriculture

Food choices can impact PFAS exposure. To support sustainable practices and reduce intake of these toxic chemicals:

• Choose organic or locally grown produce: These sources are less likely to use contaminated fertilizers that may lead to PFAS contamination of crops, reducing your exposure through food.

• Support farmers who avoid biosolids: Purchase products from farms that do not use sewage sludge as fertilizer, which can contain high levels of PFAS and lead to contamination of soil and water supplies.

• Stay informed about food sources: Research brands and suppliers to ensure they follow safe agricultural practices that minimize PFAS pollution.

• Promote transparency: Encourage food producers and retailers to provide information about their farming methods and efforts to prevent PFAS contamination.

Advocacy

Supporting broader change involves more than personal choices. You can:

• Stay informed about legislation: Follow local and national policies related to PFAS regulation. Organizations like the Environmental Working Group provide updates on efforts to control PFAS pollution and protect public health.

• Contact representatives: Reach out to lawmakers to express concerns about the health risks posed by PFAS chemicals and advocate for stricter regulations.

• Support environmental organizations: Contribute to groups working to reduce PFAS pollution and promote safer alternatives. These organizations play a crucial role in safeguarding public health.

• Raise community awareness: Share information with friends and family to increase collective understanding of PFAS exposure and health concerns, encouraging community action.

Conclusion: Facing the Challenge of Forever Chemicals

“Forever chemicals” present a complex and urgent challenge that affects many aspects of our lives. They’ve infiltrated everyday products, contaminated our environment, and pose risks to human health and ecosystems.

Overcoming the PFAS problem requires a unified approach. Scientists must be provided with funding to develop new technologies to break down these persistent chemicals. Governments need to invoke stronger regulations to limit PFAS production and contamination, and to encourage companies to explore safer alternatives and more responsible practices.

As consumers, we have the power to influence change. By staying informed and making conscious choices, we can reduce our personal exposure and encourage industries to adopt safer materials. Moreover, supporting sustainable agriculture and advocating for stricter regulations amplifies our impact.

While the challenges are significant, with continued innovation, responsible practices, and collective action, we can mitigate the effects of forever chemicals.

Your Thoughts

How have “forever chemicals” impacted your personal life? Are there steps you’ve taken to reduce exposure or advocate for change? Please share your thoughts and stories in the comments below.

Be sure to visit bleedingedgebiology.com next week for another “bleeding edge” topic!

Materials for Further Study

Books

• Exposure: Poisoned Water, Corporate Greed, and One Lawyer’s Twenty-Year Battle Against DuPont by Robert Bilott (2019) Attorney Robert Bilott shares his firsthand account of uncovering PFAS contamination and his legal battle against DuPont, revealing the dangers of these chemicals to public health and the environment.
• Stain-Resistant, Nonstick, Waterproof, and Lethal: The Hidden Dangers of C8 by Callie Lyons (2007) Investigative journalist Callie Lyons delves into the history and impact of C8 (a type of PFAS chemical), exploring its use in consumer products and the associated health risks.

Articles

• “The Lawyer Who Became DuPont’s Worst Nightmare” by Nathaniel Rich, The New York Times Magazine (January 6, 2016) This in-depth article profiles Robert Bilott’s fight against DuPont, highlighting the broader implications of PFAS contamination on communities and the environment.
• Bad Chemistry by Sharon Lerner, The Intercept A series of investigative pieces examining the history of PFAS chemicals, corporate misconduct, and the resulting environmental and health consequences.

Documentaries

• “The Devil We Know” (2018). This documentary explores the impact of PFAS contamination in a West Virginia community, featuring interviews with affected residents, scientists, and attorneys involved in the legal battles.
• “Dark Waters” (2019). A feature film based on Robert Bilott’s true story, depicting his legal struggle against DuPont and bringing attention to the issue of PFAS pollution.                   
• “PFAS: Poisoned for Eternity?” by Roland Schenke (2022) This documentary  examines how PFAS “forever chemicals” have contaminated soil, water, and everyday products. Through interviews with experts and affected individuals, the film explores the health risks of PFAS exposure, legal efforts to hold polluters accountable, and the challenges of cleaning up contamination.

TED Talks

• PFAS and a Mother’s Journey to Becoming A Clean Water Advocate by Andrea Amico , TEDxPortsmouth (2019). Andrea Amico is a mom turned national recognized clean-water activist after her local public drinking water became contaminated with Perfluorinated compounds (PFCs).

• We are All Vulnerable to the Effects of Water Pollution by Jamie Dewitt, TEDxECU (2018) Dr. Jamie Dewitt explains her research in Phamacology and Toxicology and why water pollution might pose a problem no matter where you are. Her current scientific focus is on how exposure to emerging contaminants in the aquatic environment, such as PFASs, affect the adult and developing immune and nervous systems.