“Forever chemicals” is the colloquial name given to a class of more than 12,000 chemicals, more formally known as poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), that barely break down in the environment or in our bodies and hence, the "forever" part. (2/n)
The study finds that the majority of brands tested (69%) contained PFAS, with 18 different PFAS detected in total.
Paper straws were most likely to contain PFAS, with the chemicals detected in 90% of the brands tested. (3/n)
Paper straws were most likely to contain PFAS, with the chemicals detected in 90% of the brands tested. (3/n)
Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), a compound linked to high cholesterol, a reduced immune response, thyroid disease, and increased kidney and testicular cancer, was most frequently detected.
PFOA has been banned globally since 2020. (4/n)
PFOA has been banned globally since 2020. (4/n)
Bamboo straws fared slightly better than paper ones, with PFAS found in 80% of brands.
The chemicals were found in 75% of plastic straws and 40% of glass brands.
PFAS was not detected in any of the steel straws tested. So using steel or no straws may be the best option. (n/n)
The chemicals were found in 75% of plastic straws and 40% of glass brands.
PFAS was not detected in any of the steel straws tested. So using steel or no straws may be the best option. (n/n)
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