You can be exposed to PFAS through food, water, even swimming in lakes – new maps show how risk from ‘forever chemicals’ varies
- Written by Ruohao Zhang, Assistant Professor of Agricultural Economics, Penn State
Since the 1940s, companies have been using PFAS – perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances – to make products easier to use, from Teflon nonstick pots to waterproof rain gear, stain-resistant carpet and firefighting foam.
The chemicals’ resistance to heat, oils, stains, grease and water makes them useful. However, that same...