When you order takeout or use disposable food containers, you might not realize that the packaging could be introducing harmful chemicals into your meal. Many single-use food containers contain PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. Pronunciation tip: PFAS as “PEA-fass” and polyfluoroalkyl as “PAUL-ee-floor-oh-AL-kill.” These “forever chemicals” are designed to resist grease, water, and stains, but they can also migrate into your food, posing significant health risks.

What Are PFAS and Why Should You Be Concerned?

Known for their durability, PFAS do not break down easily in the environment or the human body, often persisting for years, with alarming findings indicating that they can remain in the human body for up to 18 years.

Health Risks of PFAS

Current research indicates that exposure to certain levels of PFAS may lead to:

1.   Developmental Delays in Children: PFAS exposure has been linked to low birth weights, accelerated puberty, and changes in behavior.

2. Reproductive Problems: Studies have shown PFAS exposure can decrease fertility and increase the risk of high blood pressure during pregnancy.

3.   Cancer Risk: Increased risks of kidney, testicular, and prostate cancers have been associated with PFAS exposure.

4.   Hormone Disruption: PFAS can interfere with hormone functions, potentially leading to thyroid issues and other metabolic disorders.

5.   Immune System Suppression: Research suggests that PFAS can reduce the immune system’s ability to fight infections and respond to vaccines.

Tips for Consumers: How to Reduce Your PFAS Exposure from Food Packaging

While PFAS are difficult to avoid completely, there are practical steps you can take to reduce your exposure:

1.   Choose safer packaging: Look for disposable foodware that is wax-coated or uncoated, as opposed to items with oil-, grease-, or water-resistant claims. Avoid products labeled as “fluoro-” since they often contain PFAS.

2.   Transfer food promptly: After receiving takeout, transfer your food from its original packaging to foil, silicone, or glass containers. This minimizes the potential for PFAS to leach into your meal, especially when the food is warm.

3.   Avoid reheating in original packaging: When microwaving or reheating food, avoid using the original disposable packaging. Heating can enhance the migration of PFAS into your food.

4.   Support PFAS-free initiatives: Favor restaurants and retailers that have pledged to reduce PFAS in their packaging. Although levels may not be zero, they are generally lower at these establishments, supporting broader efforts to tackle this problem.