Tag: Forever chemicals

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 278,000 deaths each year can be attributed to the intake of industrially produced trans fats, also referred to as TFAs. These harmful fats represent just one of the multiple meanings behind the acronym TFA, which can also stand for trifluoroacetic acid (a persistent chemical contaminant) or the Trade Facilitation Agreement (a global commerce policy).

A recent study from Mamavation found indications of PFAS “forever chemicals” in 50% of the butter wrappers tested from various brands. This discovery has raised consumer awareness, leading many to question which butter does not have PFAS and how they can best protect themselves from potential contamination.

According to research published in July 2024 by Million Marker, many butter wrappers tested positive for organic fluorine, an indicator of PFAS. For health-conscious consumers, this raises the critical question of which butter doesn't have PFAS, guiding them toward safer choices at the grocery store.

According to a 2023 study by the Environmental Working Group, freshwater fish can contain up to 280 times the level of "forever chemicals" (PFAS) compared to commercially caught saltwater fish, highlighting the critical question: what is the most contaminated fish to eat?

Recent studies have identified a wide range of foods, from seafood to vegetables, as potential sources of PFAS exposure. Answering the question "What foods have the most PFAS?" is crucial for consumers looking to reduce their intake of these persistent "forever chemicals". PFAS can contaminate the food supply through various pathways, including environmental pollution and food packaging.

According to a 2024 PAN UK study, only about two percent of apples tested showed detectable PFAS residue, a stark contrast to strawberries, where residues were found in 95 percent of samples. This raises a key question for consumers: do apples have PFAS, and if so, how concerned should we be?

According to a 2023 Belgian study, toxic "forever chemicals," known as PFAS, were found in a majority of paper straws tested. As a result, the once widely accepted idea that paper straws are healthier than plastic is now under serious scrutiny.

A 2024 Consumer Reports study found that PFOS and PFOA were detected in a number of milk samples, indicating that PFAS can enter the dairy supply. This raises the important question: is there PFAS in cheese, a product derived from milk?

According to the Pesticide Action Network UK (PAN UK), roughly 60% of non-organic fruit and vegetables sold in the country contain detectable pesticide residues, with many containing a cocktail of different chemicals. This raises important questions for consumers regarding which foods contain the most pesticides in the UK and what steps they can take to minimise risk.

In 2020, a Consumer Reports study detected measurable levels of PFAS in Polar Natural Seltzer Water, sparking a debate on whether Polar Seltzer cans have PFAS. This finding contrasted sharply with the company's own water quality assurances.