PFAS stands for poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances, widely popular for being a drinking water pollutant due to industrial dispositions and chemical foam. However, you can easily find it in various products ranging from food packages to non-stick cooking utensils.
Their everlasting texture keeps it in the environment and keeps cycling from ground to groundwater. PFAS is indeed a universal contaminant that affects wildlife and human life equally. Membrane Systems are the leading water treatment service plant in Australia, serving to keep human lives and wildlife safe.
What are the products that contain PFAS?
There are a myriad of things that are made up of PFAS. Some are listed below.
- Non-stick cooking utensils
- Wrappers of fast food, packaging products, and microwave-friendly popcorn packs.
- Smudge-resistant furniture and decor items
- Fire extinguishing foam
What are the adverse effects of PFAS?
Some of the severe effects include:
- Damaged immune system- This is a proven fact that the human immune system is susceptible to PFAS. Both epidemiological and laboratory research validates it.
A study conducted in 2012 that included over 587 children found that long-time exposure to PFAS has downgraded the children’s reaction to any vaccine.
- Kidney and liver issues- PFAS are linked to various kidney and over issues. Severe to damage liver functioning, kidney damage, and liver lesions, to name a few.
- Hormone imbalance- PFAS are proven to be imbalanced hormones. Numerous studies show PFAS affecting hormone production along with estrogen production. Individuals who are highly exposed to PFAS have elevated LDL and total cholesterol levels.
- Cancer- In laboratory-tested animals, PFAS have proven to inflict tumors. Plus, the International Agency for Research of Cancer had also validated PFAS as a carcinogen focusing on epidemiological research citing testicular cancer and kidney cancer.
How to reduce PFAS exposure in daily life?
First things first, you need to revamp your place a bit for pfas removal. It might take a bit of time, but in the end, it serves well! Here is a list of things you need to refrain from:
- Cooking in Teflon-based utensils. Still, if you need to use them, make sure not to heat them above 450°F. Never leave non-stick utensils on flame unattended or use Teflon-based utensils in a hot oven or grill.
- Stain-resistance accessories and choose the ones that aren’t labeled as stain-resistance. Try to find alternatives to things that are usually sold as water/stain-resistant products like shoes, sportswear and more.
- Do a deep analysis of your daily use products. Discard anything that spells perfluoro or fluro. PFAS can nicely sneak in through dental floss and multiple cosmetic items such as nail paints, eye-shadow, and moisturizer.
- Packaged food products are home to PFAS. Make sure to avoid fast food packages that have special grease repellent layering.
Final Words
PFAS are imperishable and keep on moving in the environment, and even drinking water is contaminated by it. Even unhygienic food habits can give PFAS a chance to grow in human bodies.
If you are worrisome due to wastewater management, search Membrane Systems and be reassured of the quality services.
