Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are highly persistent organofluorine chemicals that are raising serious concern because they are found across the environment.
Their exceptional chemical stability means they don’t break down easily. As a result, they can build up in ecosystems over many years. This raises valid questions about possible effects on human health and the environment. A thoughtful public discussion is needed.
What are PFAS?
PFAS are a group of synthetic chemical compounds with an extremely stable carbon–fluorine bond. Because these chemicals resist breakdown, scientists often call them “forever chemicals”. Their structure lets them repel water and grease. That is why they are widely used in industrial and everyday products.
PFAS include several well-known sub-groups:
- The best known are PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid).
- Another common type is PFOS (perfluorooctane sulfonate).
Their persistence in the environment and ability to build up in living organisms raise important questions about long-term health and ecological effects.
Everyday products that may contain PFAS
Because of their water- and grease-repellent properties, PFAS are used in many consumer goods.
- Waterproof and stain-resistant fabrics
- Grease-resistant food packaging
- Certain rubber materials
- Waterproofing treatments
- Fire-fighting foams
- Non-stick cookware coatings
- Waterproof cosmetics
- Treated paper and cardboard
- Electronic components
PFAS are also used in cars, aircraft and construction materials because they resist fire and extreme conditions.
Where might people be exposed to PFAS?
People can encounter these “forever chemicals” in several ways. Eating contaminated food and drinking water are the most common sources. PFAS can be present in food packaging, non-stick cookware and groundwater affected by industrial releases.
Breathing household dust and absorbing PFAS through the skin via some cleaning products and cosmetics are also exposure routes. Workers in certain industries, such as chemical manufacturing and firefighting, may be especially exposed.
PFAS contamination is widespread. These chemicals can travel long distances and persist in soil, air and water. That has raised concerns about ongoing, low-level exposure across the population.
How do we ingest PFAS?
PFAS can move up the food chain. This means people may be exposed to different amounts depending on their diet and local environment. Drinking water may contain measurable levels of PFAS, especially in areas with industrial histories.
In the UK, water companies must manage PFAS in public supplies. The Drinking Water Inspectorate (DWI) has issued guidance that water companies report and act on combined PFAS levels above about 0.1 micrograms per litre (100 nanograms per litre). This threshold is used as a precautionary measure to help protect health.
At Weeplow we recommend using a gravity-fed filter with an activated carbon filter. This combination can reduce many pollutants and pesticides by up to 99 %.
Certain foods may also contain PFAS:
- Fish and seafood
- Meat, especially beef and pork
- Dairy products
- Fruit and vegetables grown in contaminated soil
- Processed and fast foods
Where are PFAS found in the environment?
PFAS have been used widely for decades. Because they don’t break down easily, they now appear throughout the environment — in air, water and soil.
In the air, PFAS can travel far from where they were released. Industrial discharges, waste incineration and everyday consumer products all contribute to this pollution.
They also occur in surface water and groundwater. These pathways bring them into ecosystems where people and wildlife may be exposed.
What are the health effects of PFAS?
Scientific research suggests that exposure to some PFAS can affect health. Studies have linked certain PFAS to immune and thyroid problems, liver and kidney disease, metabolic disruption, reproductive effects and some cancers.
Here are some examples identified by research groups:
Why are these compounds concerning?
PFAS can build up in the human body over time. Because they are used so widely — in textiles, cookware and food packaging — people are exposed again and again.
Certain PFAS such as PFOA and PFOS are linked with cancer and endocrine disruption. They can affect fertility and foetal development. They have also been associated with liver, kidney and immune system effects.
In response to these concerns, the UK government has published its first national plan to better understand and reduce PFAS exposure across the environment and public water supplies. This includes consulting on statutory limits for PFAS in drinking water and expanding monitoring and research.
How can you protect yourself?
It isn’t possible to avoid PFAS entirely. But simple steps can help reduce your exposure in everyday life.
Eating and cooking with less PFAS
Food is a key source of PFAS exposure. Choose unprocessed foods where possible and limit ready meals and fast food. These often come in PFAS-treated packaging.
Opt for fresh, local and seasonal foods, ideally organic. This can help lower your exposure.
When cooking, avoid non-stick cookware that can release PFAS at high heat. Safer alternatives include cast iron, stainless steel and ceramic pans.
For other products, choose natural or eco-labelled options. For example, select textiles made from untreated natural fibres and household cleaners with minimal chemicals.
UK regulation of PFAS
The UK is taking steps to manage PFAS, but the regulatory framework is still developing. The Drinking Water Inspectorate has set guidelines to help water companies monitor and respond to PFAS levels in public supplies.
Other countries may have different limits or statutory standards. That makes international context useful but not directly applicable. Change is ultimately in your hands.
