What are PFAS and why are they a concern?
PFAS are a large group of synthetic chemicals that have been widely used since the 1940s in various industrial and consumer products due to their resistance to heat, oil, stains, and water. Their strong chemical bonds prevent them from breaking down easily in the environment or the human body, which is why they are often called "forever chemicals". This persistence is a significant environmental and health concern, leading to their bioaccumulation in humans and animals over time.
Potential health risks linked to PFAS exposure
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other scientific bodies, exposure to certain PFAS has been associated with a range of adverse health effects, including:
- Increased cholesterol levels
- Changes in liver function
- Thyroid disease
- Compromised immune system function
- Developmental delays in children
- Certain types of cancer, such as testicular and kidney cancer
- Adverse reproductive outcomes, including decreased fertility and preeclampsia
The Kerrygold PFAS packaging incident
In early 2023, Kerrygold's butter became the subject of scrutiny following the implementation of state laws banning PFAS in food packaging in New York and California. The manufacturer, Ornua Foods, preemptively recalled its butter products from these markets because the wrapping contained the regulated substances.
Following the recall, a class-action lawsuit was filed against Ornua, alleging deceptive advertising because the presence of PFAS-containing packaging contradicted the "Pure Irish Butter" label. The lawsuit argued that the chemicals could have migrated from the wrapping into the fatty butter, thereby contaminating the product. While a U.S. District Judge initially allowed the lawsuit to proceed, the case was dismissed with prejudice in August 2024, after the parties reached an agreement.
The manufacturer's response
In response to the new regulations and consumer concerns, Kerrygold confirmed it had replaced the older packaging with a PFAS-compliant version. The butter with the updated packaging began returning to store shelves in affected states, reassuring consumers that the product was once again compliant with local laws.
How PFAS can contaminate food, including butter
PFAS can enter the food chain through various pathways, extending beyond just food packaging. The primary routes of contamination include:
- Leaching from food contact materials: This was the specific issue with Kerrygold's old butter wraps. PFAS used for grease and moisture resistance can migrate into fatty foods, especially over time and with temperature changes.
- Environmental pollution: PFAS can contaminate soil and water sources near manufacturing plants, landfills, or military bases where firefighting foams were used.
- Agricultural practices: When contaminated water is used for irrigation or when farms use PFAS-contaminated biosolids as fertilizer, the chemicals can be taken up by crops and ingested by livestock.
- Bioaccumulation in animals: Dairy animals that consume contaminated feed or water can accumulate PFAS in their bodies, which is then passed into their milk and, subsequently, into dairy products like butter. Research has found that PFAS, particularly PFOS, can accumulate in higher concentrations in butterfat or cream.
Comparison: Packaging vs. Environmental Contamination
| Feature | Packaging Contamination (e.g., Kerrygold recall) | Environmental Contamination (General risk) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Source | Chemical leaching from the product's wrapper or packaging materials. | Ingestion of contaminated feed or water by dairy cows, or exposure to contaminated soil. |
| Mechanism | PFAS migrates from the packaging directly into the food product, particularly fat. | PFAS are absorbed from the environment (soil, water) by the cow, and then transfer to the milk and become concentrated in butterfat. |
| Manufacturer's Action | The issue is addressable by changing the packaging materials to PFAS-free alternatives. | Requires careful sourcing of animal feed and water, along with monitoring of dairy farms located in potentially contaminated areas. |
| Consumer Control | Check for updated packaging or confirmation from the manufacturer regarding PFAS-free wraps. | Consumers have less control and must rely on industry testing, regulatory oversight, and choosing brands that prioritize avoiding these contamination pathways. |
What to do about PFAS in your diet
While Kerrygold has updated its packaging, the larger issue of PFAS in the food supply remains. A proactive approach to your nutrition diet can help minimize exposure to these persistent chemicals. Consider the following steps:
- Choose PFAS-free packaging: Opt for brands that have committed to PFAS-free food packaging. Many companies are phasing out these materials voluntarily or due to state regulations. Check company websites or look for explicit "PFAS-free" claims.
- Filter your drinking water: Contaminated drinking water is a significant source of PFAS exposure. Use a water filter certified to remove PFAS to reduce your intake.
- Diversify your food sources: Don't rely on a single brand or type of food. By varying your diet, you can reduce the likelihood of accumulating high levels of PFAS from a single contaminated source.
- Avoid non-stick cookware: Some older non-stick cookware contains PFAS. Using stainless steel, cast iron, or ceramic options can help eliminate a potential source of exposure.
- Stay informed about agricultural contamination: Be aware of potential contamination events in your region. Resources from the EPA and state environmental agencies can provide information on local water and soil contamination.
Conclusion
The question, Does Kerrigold butter have PFAS?, has a nuanced answer. While past products sold in specific US states were packaged with materials containing PFAS and were subject to recall, the company has since transitioned to compliant packaging. The incident serves as an important reminder that consumers should be mindful of 'forever chemicals' in their food. By being aware of potential sources, from food packaging to environmental factors impacting dairy and other agricultural products, you can make more informed choices for a healthier nutrition diet. For additional information on PFAS and food safety, resources from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration can be helpful.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Kerrygold butter contain PFAS currently?
No, Kerrygold has confirmed that it has replaced its packaging with a PFAS-compliant version following recalls and legal action in 2023. The butter currently sold should not contain PFAS from packaging.
Can PFAS in packaging migrate into butter?
Yes, PFAS used for grease-proofing in food packaging can migrate into food products, particularly fatty foods like butter. The extent of migration depends on factors such as contact time and temperature.
What prompted the Kerrygold recall related to PFAS?
The recall was triggered by new state laws in New York and California that banned the use of PFAS in food packaging. Kerrygold's manufacturer initiated the recall to comply with these new regulations.
What are the potential health effects of PFAS exposure?
PFAS exposure has been linked to various health issues, including increased cholesterol, changes in liver function, thyroid disease, reduced immune function, and certain types of cancer.
How can I reduce my exposure to PFAS in my diet?
To reduce PFAS exposure, you can filter your drinking water, use PFAS-free cookware, choose brands with confirmed PFAS-free packaging, and diversify your food sources to limit reliance on one agricultural source.
What are 'forever chemicals'?
'Forever chemicals' is a common term for PFAS because their strong chemical bonds make them extremely persistent and resistant to breaking down in the environment and human body.
Was the PFAS contamination in Kerrygold butter from the cows or the packaging?
The contamination that led to the 2023 recall was specifically linked to the food packaging, not the milk from the grass-fed cows. However, environmental contamination leading to animal bioaccumulation is a separate, broader concern for the entire food chain.
