Researchers from the University of Toronto, Indiana University, and the University of Notre Dame discovered residues of PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) "forever chemicals" in food packaging for the first time.
According to SciTech Daily, the team said that these toxic chemicals found in Canadian fast food packaging for the first time pose health concerns because they can detach and end up in food and beverages. These substances are present in water-and-grease repellent paper alternatives to plastic as they are deemed more environmentally friendly.
Paper-Based Fast Food Packaging Contains Harmful Forever Chemicals
The new study, "Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances in Canadian Fast Food Packaging," published in Environmental Science & Technology Letters, reports that paper food wrappers and compostable bowls contain PFAS chemicals that can break off and contaminate food and drinks, leading to health problems.
The study said that chemicals are added to these paper products to make them water- and grease-repellent.
Researchers tested about 42 paper-based wrappers and bowls from fast-food restaurants in Toronto, wherein eight samples with high levels of fluorine were analyzed in detail. Fiber-based molded bowls marketed as compostable had three to ten times higher PFAS levels than doughnut and pastry bags.
Eleven US states have banned PFAS in most food packaging, and two major restaurant chains have pledged to remove PFAS from their operations by 2025.
The researchers discovered that PFAS levels in the products declined by up to 85% after two years of storage, debunking the belief that polymeric PFAS, a type of larger molecule, cannot escape from products. The release of PFAS from food packaging into indoor air provides yet another means for people to be exposed to these chemicals.
Professor Miriam Diamond of the University of Toronto emphasized that using PFAS in food packaging is a regrettable trade-off and called for strengthening regulations and adopting fiber-based food packaging that does not contain PFAS.
READ ALSO : Scientists Found Nearly 42,000 Toxic 'Forever' Chemicals That Could Contaminate Drinking Water
How Harmful is PFAS?
Global News reports that PFAS, which are often called "forever chemicals," refers to a class of human-made chemicals that consist of thousands of long-lasting substances used in a variety of everyday products, such as furniture, cosmetics, textiles, paints, firefighting foams, food packaging, and more.
These chemicals are utilized to prevent dirt, water, and grease from sticking to surfaces, which is why they are present in items such as waterproof garments and personal care goods.
According to Health Canada, certain PFAS have been linked to harmful effects on the reproductive, developmental, endocrine, liver, kidney, and immune systems. Exposure to PFAS can also modify cholesterol levels and weaken the effectiveness of vaccines.
Some research has suggested that high levels of exposure could increase the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Miriam Diamond, the study co-author, explained that the harmful effects of PFAS include a range of issues, such as reduced fertility and lower birth weight.
Lastly, when packaging containing PFAS is disposed of, the substances enter the environment, where they remain for long periods without degrading.
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