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Table Of Contents
- Household Products That Contain PFAS
- PFAS in Drinking Water
- Effects of PFAS in Household Products on Health
- Are Governments Taking Steps to Ban PFAS?
- FAQs
- 1. How can I identify products that contain PFAS?
- 2. What non-stick cookware contains PFAS?
- 3. What food packaging materials contain PFAS?
- 4. How do I know if my drinking water contains PFAS?
- 5. Can PFAS be removed from the body?
- 6. Are PFAS absorbed through the skin?
- 7. How widespread is PFAS contamination in the United States?
- 8. What steps can I take to reduce my exposure to PFAS?
- 9. Which government agencies regulate PFAS?
- 10. Are PFAS found in bottled water?
- Get a Free PFAS Household Products Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers
Household Products That Contain PFAS
Some of the most common household products where PFAS can be found include the following:
- Cosmetics
- Personal care products including shampoo, conditioner, lotion, and soap
- Cleaning supplies like dishwasher detergent and laundry detergent
- Food packagings like microwave popcorn bags or pizza boxes
- Non-stick cookware such as Teflon pans
- Water-repellent fabrics for outdoor gear such as tents or camping equipment
These are just a few of the household products that expose consumers to PFAS forever chemicals. It is important to read labels carefully when shopping for household items and avoid buying anything with “PFOA” or “PFOS” on the label.
Related Article: PFAS Exposure Lawsuit Update
PFAS in Drinking Water
Recent laboratory tests conducted by the Environmental Group (EWG) have identified PFAS in the drinking water of dozens of US cities, including major metropolitan areas. The results confirm that the number of Americans exposed to PFAS from contaminated tap water has been dramatically underestimated by previous studies.
Based on EWG’s tests and new studies which have found PFAS widespread in rainwater, scientists now believe PFAS is likely detectable in all major water supplies in the US, almost certainly in all that use surface water.
Effects of PFAS in Household Products on Health
It is possible to mitigate your risk of PFAS exposure, but not entirely if you have already been exposed.
The most obvious risk of PFAS exposure is in drinking water that has been tainted with the chemicals, especially in areas with high levels of firefighting foam runoff.
The health effects of how we ingest PFAS are still not clearly understood. However, animal studies have found that high exposure to PFAS has some consistently negative effects on health, including [1]:
- Disrupting hormone distribution
- Abnormally high cholesterol levels
- Weakened immune system
- Cancer
Are Governments Taking Steps to Ban PFAS?
Yes. In June 2020, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) branded 172 PFAS chemicals as toxic, and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is currently encouraging local manufacturers to phase out certain PFAS in food packaging by January 2024.
Some states including New York, California, and Vermont, have agreed to start completely banning PFAS in food packaging by the beginning of 2023.
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FAQs
1. How can I identify products that contain PFAS?
Identifying PFAS-containing products can be difficult since they are not always labeled. Look for terms like “non-stick,” “stain-resistant,” or “water-repellent.” Some brand names are known to use PFAS in their manufacturing. Researching the product specifications and company transparency on chemical use can help you determine if PFAS are involved.
2. What non-stick cookware contains PFAS?
Cookware coated with substances like Teflon or similar materials typically contains PFAS. These coatings are popular for their non-stick convenience but can release PFAS into food or the air, especially when overheated or damaged.
3. What food packaging materials contain PFAS?
PFAS are found in many grease-resistant and moisture-repelling packaging materials, including fast food wrappers, microwave popcorn bags, bakery papers, and pizza boxes. These substances can leach into food during storage or heating.
4. How do I know if my drinking water contains PFAS?
The best way to find out is to test your water. Check your water utility’s Consumer Confidence Report or request PFAS-specific testing through a certified laboratory that can detect these chemicals at very low levels.
5. Can PFAS be removed from the body?
PFAS remain in the body for years because they break down very slowly. There are currently no proven medical treatments to speed up their removal. Your body gradually excretes them over time, but the process is slow, often taking several years depending on the compound.
6. Are PFAS absorbed through the skin?
Yes, PFAS can enter the body through skin contact, though this route is generally less effective than ingestion or inhalation. Exposure may come from items like cosmetics, cleaning products, or waterproof clothing treated with PFAS.
7. How widespread is PFAS contamination in the United States?
PFAS contamination is common across the country. Studies and government reports have shown that these chemicals are found in many public water systems, and the CDC has found traces of PFAS in 97% of Americans tested.
8. What steps can I take to reduce my exposure to PFAS?
Use stainless steel or cast iron instead of non-stick cookware, skip stain-resistant furniture and clothing, and avoid food packaged in PFAS-treated containers. You can also install a certified water filter that targets PFAS and choose products labeled as “PFOA-free” or “PFOS-free.”
9. Which government agencies regulate PFAS?
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) handles regulation of PFAS in the environment, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) oversees PFAS in food contact materials, and the CDC studies their health effects. State and local agencies also conduct testing and implement protective measures.
10. Are PFAS found in bottled water?
Yes, some bottled water brands contain PFAS, though levels differ. The FDA regulates bottled water, but not all brands test for PFAS or disclose results. Some brands do advertise being PFAS-free, so reading labels and company testing disclosures can help guide your choices.
See all related product liability lawsuits our lawyers covered so far.
Get a Free PFAS Household Products Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers
Time is limited to pursue legal action for PFAS-related injuries. Statutes of limitations vary by state, typically ranging from 1-6 years from when you discovered or reasonably should have discovered your injury and its connection to PFAS exposure. Waiting too long could permanently bar you from seeking the compensation you deserve.
At Schmidt & Clark, LLP, we offer:
- Free, confidential consultations to evaluate your case
- No upfront costs or fees for our legal services
- Payment only if we win your case or secure a settlement
- Experienced attorneys specializing in toxic exposure litigation
The science linking PFAS to serious health conditions continues to evolve, strengthening cases against manufacturers who used these chemicals despite knowing about potential risks.
Don’t delay in seeking the justice and compensation you deserve for PFAS-related injuries.
Reference:
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7906952/