How you can limit your exposure to PFAs: UI Extension

URBANA, Ill. (WCIA) — Forever chemicals, which are commonly found in household items, pose a threat to polluting soil, lakes, rivers and streams across the country — as well as human health. Illinois Extension is sharing tips on how you can reduce your exposure to PFAs and protect yourself.

PFAs — per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, consist of more than 15,000 man-made chemicals that are added to some products in order to resist grease, oil, water and heat, according to UI Extension . Some common items PFAs are found in include clothing, food packaging, cookware, cleaning products and cosmetics.

These forever chemicals are a threat to the environment as they break down slowly, accumulating in aquatic animals and plants. For this same reason, PFA exposure poses risks to human health — so much that the Environmental Protection Agency said in a release that no levels of exposure to PFAs are safe. Increased risks of certain cancers, kidney and heart disease, and reproductive issues have been linked to PFA exposure.

Pollution prevention specialist Sarah Zach shared these tips with UI extension on what you should do to limit exposure to PFAs:

• Replace nonstick pans with scratches on them, and don’t heat them beyond the recommended temperature — usually this is 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Overall, stainless steel, cast iron and ceramic cookware are better alternatives to nonstick cookware.
• Be cautious when consuming food from takeout containers, microwave popcorn bags, and fast-food packaging as these can all be coated with PFAs.
• Leave your shoes at the door to prevent tracking in chemicals.
• Avoid stain-resistant carpets, upholstery and other fabrics. It’s also good to vacuum regularly as PFAs can build up in dusty fabrics.
• Check advisories before consuming seafood caught locally.
• Check in with your public water utility to see if your drinking water has been tested for PFAs. Anyone using private wells should test their water frequently. At-home water filtration systems can help as well.

For more information on PFAs, you can visit the EPA’s website .

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