How to avoid forever chemicals in food in the UK?

December 15, 2025 •

3 min read

Recent UK government residue testing found that over half of tested fruit and vegetable samples contained 'forever chemicals' (PFAS), highlighting a concerning widespread contamination. Avoiding these persistent chemicals in food is possible with the right knowledge and simple changes to your daily routine.

Quick Summary

This guide provides UK consumers with actionable advice to minimise exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) through everyday food. It covers selecting produce, evaluating food packaging, choosing safer cookware, and filtering drinking water to safeguard health against these persistent chemicals.

Key Points

Packaging is a major source: Grease-resistant paper and cardboard in takeaways often contain PFAS. Reduce consumption and use reusable containers.
Choose safer cookware: Opt for cast iron, stainless steel, or certified PFAS-free ceramic instead of traditional non-stick.
Filter your drinking water: Due to contamination, filtering water with activated carbon or reverse osmosis is crucial.
Beware of treated produce: Some fruits and vegetables are treated with PFAS pesticides. Choose organic or seasonal and wash thoroughly.
Reduce convenience food: Processed and packaged foods are often exposed to PFAS and should be limited.
Support PFAS-free brands: Choose companies committed to eliminating PFAS from their products and packaging.

Understanding the Problem with Forever Chemicals (PFAS)

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, known as 'forever chemicals' or PFAS, are a large group of human-made chemicals resistant to heat, grease, and water. Their persistence means they don't break down easily, accumulating in the environment and bodies. Exposure to some PFAS is linked to health issues like certain cancers, thyroid disease, and immune problems.

PFAS enter UK food via pesticides, packaging migration, and contaminated water and soil. While complete avoidance is difficult, reducing exposure is achievable.

Reduce Exposure from Food Packaging and Takeaways

Food packaging is a major PFAS source in the UK, used to make paper and cardboard grease and moisture resistant in fast food and takeaways. A study found PFAS in packaging from most major UK supermarkets and all tested takeaways.

Simple actions to take:

Minimise takeaways: Cooking at home avoids PFAS packaging exposure.
Bring containers: Use reusable glass or metal containers for takeaways.
Avoid treated products: Be wary of microwave popcorn bags and greaseproof paper unless labelled PFAS-free.

Choose Safer Cookware and Food Storage

Traditional non-stick cookware often contains PTFE, a PFAS that can release chemicals when scratched or overheated.

Cookware alternatives:

Cast iron: Durable and naturally non-stick when seasoned.
Stainless steel: Versatile and reliable.
Ceramic-coated: Choose brands labelled 'PFAS-free'.

Replace plastic food storage with:

Glass containers: Durable and non-porous.
Stainless steel containers: Lightweight and non-toxic.
Silicone lids and bags: Flexible and safe.

Manage Water Contamination

PFAS are present in UK drinking water due to environmental contamination.

Water filtration options:

Reverse osmosis: Highly effective at removing PFAS.
Activated Carbon (GAC): Found in filter jugs, reduces some PFAS but needs regular replacement.
Check with provider: Contact your water company about testing and treatment.

Select Your Fresh Produce with Care

PAN UK analysis shows many UK fruits and vegetables contain PFAS pesticides. Strawberries were particularly affected.

Tips for buying fresh produce:

Go organic: Organic farming avoids PFAS pesticides.
Consider seasonality: Eating seasonal produce can help.
Wash thoroughly: Reduces surface contamination.

Comparison of Common Cookware Types


Feature	Non-Stick (PTFE-based)	Cast Iron	Stainless Steel	Ceramic-Coated (PFAS-Free)
PFAS Risk	High, especially when scratched or overheated	None	None	None (if certified)
Durability	Low, coating wears away over time	Very high, can last a lifetime	High, very resilient	Varies, can be more delicate
Maintenance	Low, easy to clean	High, requires seasoning and care	Medium, can be more difficult to clean	Medium, requires gentle cleaning
Heat Tolerance	Low to medium	Very high	High	Medium to high
Pros	Convenient, easy to use	Excellent heat retention, durable	Versatile, rust-resistant	Non-toxic, good heat distribution
Cons	Leaching of PFAS, low durability	Heavy, rusts if not cared for	Food can stick if not preheated	Coatings can chip, varying quality

Conclusion: Making Informed Choices

Reducing exposure to forever chemicals in UK food is possible through informed choices. By avoiding non-stick cookware, using reusables for takeaways, filtering water, and choosing organic and seasonal produce, you can create a safer food environment. Consumer pressure on brands and retailers can also drive change. Stay informed and make choices for a healthier future. For more details on PFAS pesticides in UK food, visit the Pesticide Action Network UK website.

Disclaimer: The information provided is for general guidance and should not replace professional medical or scientific advice. Always check product labels and consult with health and environmental experts for specific concerns.

Frequently Asked Questions

Forever chemicals (PFAS) resist degradation and accumulate in the environment and bodies. They enter food via contaminated water/soil, pesticides, and packaging migration.

Washing helps with surface residues but not PFAS absorbed by plants from soil or water. Choosing organic or seasonal produce and being aware of high-risk items is more effective.

Bring reusable containers for takeaways and reduce overall fast food consumption, as packaging is a primary source.

Many non-stick pans contain PTFE (a PFAS) that can leach into food. Safer options include cast iron, stainless steel, or 'PFAS-free' ceramic.

Reverse osmosis is highly effective, while activated carbon filters can reduce levels but need regular replacement.

Organic produce avoids PFAS pesticides, making it a safer option. However, background contamination can still occur.

The UK monitors residues, but campaigners argue regulations are insufficient and lag behind other countries. Organisations advocate for stronger restrictions.