Published by You may be entitled to compensation by filing a lawsuit and we can help. Please click the button below for a Free Case Evaluation or call us toll-free 24 hrs/day by dialing (866) 588-0600.
Table Of Contents
- What is Teflon?
- Is Teflon a PFAS?
- What’s the Problem with Teflon?
- PFOA Health Effects
- What are the Risks of Cooking with Teflon?
- What are the Environmental Risks of Teflon?
- FAQs
- 1. How long do Teflon lawsuits typically take to resolve?
- 2. What is the average settlement for Teflon exposure cases?
- 3. What should I do if I have health issues related to PFAS exposure?
- 4. Are there alternatives to PFAS-containing products?
- 5. What are the symptoms of PFAS exposure?
- 6. Can PFAS be detected in the body?
- 7. Was Teflon recalled?
- 8. Can I file a lawsuit if I used Teflon but don’t have symptoms yet?
- Get Your Free Teflon Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers
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.
Is Teflon a PFAS?
Teflon is not a PFAS itself, but it is made using chemicals that belong to the PFAS family. Specifically, Teflon contains polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), which is a type of fluoropolymer.
PTFE is produced through the use of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) or other chemicals from the PFAS group during the manufacturing process.
While Teflon cookware and other products may not contain significant levels of PFAS after production, the chemicals used in the manufacturing process (like PFOA) are considered part of the broader PFAS family, which are associated with environmental and health concerns.
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) [1].
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.
Related Articles:
FAQs
Get Your Free Teflon Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers
Time is limited to pursue legal action related to Teflon and PFAS exposure. Most states have a statute of limitations of only 2-3 years from the date of injury or discovery of the connection between your health issues and PFAS exposure. Don’t delay in seeking legal assistance.
At Schmidt & Clark, LLP, we offer:
- Free, confidential consultations to evaluate your case
- No upfront costs or fees for our services
- Payment only if we win your case and secure compensation for you
Reference:
- https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/epa-announces-proposal-protect-communities-pfas-drinking-water