What are PFAS?

Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of manufactured chemicals that are widely used in industrial settings and in everyday products.

Major applications of PFAS include aerospace and defence; automotive industries; aviation; food contact materials and food processing; textiles, leather and apparel (for the purposes of waterproofing and stain resistance); construction materials; metal plating and metal products; household products (including non-stick cookware, for example); ski wax; electronics and semi-conductors; cosmetics; firefighting foams; and medical devices.

PFAS are made up of carbon and fluorine atoms, the bond between which is extremely strong meaning that PFAS do not degrade in the environment. In fact, scientists have been unable to estimate a half-life for PFAS (the time taken for 50% of the chemical to disappear), which led to PFAS being given the nickname ‘forever chemicals’.

What are the risks posed by PFAS?

PFAS can be released into the environment at almost any stage of a product’s lifecycle (as illustrated below). They can come off packaging or products into the food that is being prepared,