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Table Of Contents
What is Teflon?
Teflon is a chemical coating that was first manufactured in the 1930s to create a non-reactive, nonstick surface. It’s known for its use in cookware, although it can also be used to coat other materials like wires or fabrics to make them waterproof.
What’s the Problem with Teflon?
The concern over using Teflon has to do with a chemical called perfluorooctanoic acid, or PFOA, which is one of the most widely-used PFAS, as well as a chemical that has been classified as a hazardous substance by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Trace amounts of PFOA are found in Teflon cookware, even though it was meant to burn off during the manufacturing process.
Related Article: PFAS Lawsuit Update
PFOA Health Effects
Recent studies have linked the PFOA in Teflon to severe health problems including:
- Chronic kidney disease
- Thyroid disorders
- Liver disease
- Testicular cancer
- Infertility
- Low birth weight
What are the Risks of Cooking with Teflon?
Using Teflon non-stick cookware as directed is safe. PTFE itself is inert, meaning it’s not going to react with chemicals inside or outside your body. However, heating PTFE-coated pots and pans very hot (to more than 660°Fahrenheit), can cause temporary symptoms like coughing, fever, or a sore throat.
Related Article: Do All Non-Stick Pans Have PFAS?
What are the Environmental Risks of Teflon?
Despite PFOA being eliminated from Teflon in 2013, environmental groups are still concerned about PTFE products for their potential health impact. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has expressed concerns over the environmental impact of the chemicals that replaced PFOA in the manufacturing processes. One replacement chemical, GenX, has been linked to many of the same health problems as PFOA.
FAQs
What should I do if I have health issues related to PFAS exposure?
If you have health issues related to PFAS exposure, seek medical evaluation, document your symptoms and exposure history, and consult with an attorney experienced in environmental or product liability cases to discuss your legal options.
Are there alternatives to PFAS-containing products?
Yes, there are alternatives to PFAS-containing products. Consumers can choose PFAS-free cookware, clothing, and personal care products. Manufacturers are also developing and adopting safer alternatives in response to regulatory pressure and consumer demand.
What are the symptoms of PFAS exposure?
Symptoms of PFAS exposure are not specific but can include high cholesterol, liver enzyme changes, thyroid hormone disruption, decreased immune response, and developmental effects in fetuses and infants. Chronic exposure may increase cancer risk.
Can PFAS be detected in the body?
Yes, PFAS can be detected in the body through blood tests. However, routine testing for PFAS is not commonly available and is typically done in research or specific health monitoring programs for exposed populations.
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If you or a loved one was injured by PFAS contamination, you should contact our law firm immediately for a free case evaluation. You may be entitled to a settlement by filing a suit and we can help.