“PFAS stands for ‘per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances’, which are a large group of human-made chemicals … that are used widely in consumer products and industry. They can make products resistant to water, grease and stains and protect against fire. Waterproof outdoor apparel and cosmetics, stain-resistant upholstery and carpets, food packaging that is designed to prevent liquid or grease from leaking through, and certain firefighting equipment often contain PFAS … PFAS are also found in unexpected places like high-performance ski and snowboard waxes, floor waxes and medical devices.
At first glance, PFAS sound pretty useful, so you might be wondering “what’s the big deal?” The short answer is that PFAS are harmful to human health and the environment.”
From: What are PFAS, and why is the EPA warning about them in drinking water? An environmental health scientist explains (Kathryn Crawford, The Conversation, June 22, 2022)
**Created July 2025**
Sources:
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