By Patrick Nolen on December 21, 2024
With the holiday season upon us, gift-giving, cookies for Santa, and family gatherings are in full-swing. However, there’s one gift no one wants this year: exposure to PFAS or “forever chemicals.”
What are PFAS?
PFOA (Perfluorooctanoic acid) and PFOS (Perfluorooctanesulfonic acid) are part of the chemical family ‘PFAS’ (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). PFAS make up a large, diverse family of compounds that have historically been used in manufacturing for various household items including cookware, cosmetics, and clothing due to their waterproof and stain resistant qualities as well as their resistance to extreme temperatures. However, findings in the early 2000s showed that PFAS can remain in human blood over long periods, leading to the nickname “forever chemicals.”[1]
According to EPA, the presence of PFOA and PFOS in the human body over time leads to an increased risk of serious health conditions, including several types of cancer, thyroid disease, and ulcerative colitis. PFAS exposure has also been linked to low birth weights, hypertension, and other health conditions.
Avoiding PFAS this Holiday Season
While awareness of PFAS grows, these chemicals can still make their way into your holiday celebrations. Here are some practical tips to help you minimize exposure and protect your loved ones over the coming weeks and in the New Year ahead:
- Opt for PFAS-free cookware
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PFAS originated in 1946 when DuPont first began developing non-stick cookware with Teflon™. As easy as it makes kitchen clean-up, many experts recommend avoiding using or gifting non-stick cookware by switching to stainless steel or cast-iron pots and pans. Wooden or bamboo utensils are another great kitchen alternative.
- Be wary of waterproof
Ensure gifts for the campers, hikers, and nature enthusiasts in your life are safe by searching for a “PFAS-free” label. To repel rain, many waterproof clothing items and accessories are treated with PFAS, so look for items made of natural materials as an alternative.
- Carefully choose cosmetics
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Unfortunately, many of the products directly applied to skin can contain harmful PFAS. When getting ready for holiday parties, opt for cosmetic brands committed to clean, chemical-free formulas, and apply regular mascara instead of waterproof mascara to limit potential PFAS exposure.
- Bake with caution
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Holiday treats and festive meals often come with packaging designed to handle grease. However, many grease-resistant papers and containers are treated with PFAS. Consider transferring takeout or baked goods into your own containers and avoid reheating food in its original packaging. When baking, opt for unbleached parchment paper or reusable silicone mats instead of non-stick alternatives.
Cory Watson Cares
As attorneys, we encourage individuals and businesses to stay informed about PFAS risks and advocate for cleaner, safer alternatives. Cory Watson’s team of lawyers have fought for justice and compensation for people harmed by dangerous chemicals like PFAS for decades, having already put over $500 million of net awards into affected communities and continuing to push for more. If you’ve been harmed by PFAS or other toxic chemicals, contact us today to discuss your case with our experienced environmental personal injury lawyers by calling (866) 622-9906.
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