FDA Strikes at Toxic ‘Forever Chemicals’ – But There is Still Danger

The Food and Drug Administration made a significant move toward healthier and safer food consumption practices. The health organization declared a ban on certain types of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in food packaging.

These substances, often referred to as “forever chemicals” due to their persistent nature, have been commonly used for their greaseproof properties in various food containers, including fast-food wrappers, microwave popcorn bags, and pizza boxes. Yep. Natural Society started covering this PFAS issue years ago.

Still, even years later, PFAS were still a problem in fast food packages and more.

The FDA’s research “has illuminated” the role of such packaging as a primary source of PFAS exposure in diets, raising concerns over the chemicals’ potential to disrupt hormonal balance and contribute to a range of health issues.

“The major source of dietary exposure to PFAS from food packaging like fast-food wrappers, microwave popcorn bags, take-out paperboard containers and pet food bags is being eliminated,” Jim Jones, the FDA’s deputy commissioner for human foods said in a written statement.

These include alterations in immune and liver function, obesity, diabetes, certain types of cancer, and reduced birth weights.

The announcement has been met with applause from health and environmental advocates, who have long criticized the reliance on PFAS in consumer products due to their enduring presence in both human bodies and the environment.

The push for this regulatory change has been bolstered by state-level bans and the growing demand for safer, PFAS-free packaging alternatives.

Dr. Leonardo Trasande from NYU Langone Health, an expert on the health impacts of PFAS, expressed strong support for the FDA’s decision, highlighting the significant reduction in exposure this ban will facilitate.

Similarly, Melanie Benesh of the Environmental Working Group emphasized the role of state initiatives in driving the removal of PFAS from the market, particularly in food packaging sectors where safer alternatives are readily available.

Voluntary Phase Out Announced in 2020

This regulatory milestone follows the FDA’s 2020 announcement of a voluntary phase-out by chemical manufacturers of certain PFAS in food packaging, prompted by findings that these substances could remain in the human body longer than previously thought.

Jim Jones hailed this development as a significant victory for public health, achieved through collaborative efforts between the FDA and the industry.

Related Read: 16 Million Americans Could be Exposed to Water Contaminated with PFAS

Chemical Industry Not a Fan of the FDA’s Decision

But of course not everyone is thrilled.

The American Chemistry Council, representing the chemical industry, responded by emphasizing the diversity and essential uses of PFAS in various critical products, from electronics to healthcare.

The organization advocates for a science-based regulatory approach, recognizing the need for differentiation among PFAS compounds based on their unique properties and uses.

This transition marks a continued effort to move away from long-chain PFAS, which were discontinued in 2011 due to safety concerns, and their short-chain replacements, which have since been scrutinized for their potential health risks.

PFAS Still a Toxic Problem Today – Plus Some Solutions

It’s important to note that the presence of PFAS in food packaging might still persist for some time, as existing stocks of such materials are phased out over the next 18 months.

And while the chemicals appearing in items like fast food wrappers is a concern, it may be more of a priority for you to plan on replacing any potentially toxic cookware that you use everyday that exposes you to these chemicals.

Traditional cookware materials like cast iron, stainless steel, or ceramic offer safer options that do not compromise health for convenience.

I’d recommend something like Caraway, which is a fabulous non-toxic option.