PFAS are often called “forever chemicals” because many of them persist for years—or much longer—in the environment. They have been used since the 1940s to make products resistant to water, oil, grease, heat and stains. That same durability makes PFAS useful in manufacturing, but difficult to remove once they enter soil, rivers, wildlife and the human body.
Where might you encounter them? The answer is broader than many people expect. PFAS have been used in food packaging, outdoor clothing, cosmetics, cookware, firefighting foams and industrial processes. However, their presence is not always obvious from a product label. A product described as “waterproof” or “stain-resistant” may contain PFAS, but marketing language alone cannot confirm it.
The good news is that consumers can reduce unnecessary exposure by understanding where these chemicals are commonly found, choosing alternatives and checking for credible information. Avoiding every possible PFAS exposure is not realistic, but reducing avoidable sources is a practical step.
What are PFAS?
PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a large family of manufactured chemicals. Thousands of individual PFAS exist, although only a smaller number have been studied in detail. Their carbon-fluorine bonds are exceptionally strong, which gives them valuable technical properties—and makes them highly persistent.
Some PFAS, including PFOA and PFOS, have been phased out or heavily restricted in many countries. Yet replacement chemicals and newer short-chain PFAS may still be used in certain applications. “PFOA-free” therefore does not automatically mean “PFAS-free.” It is important to look for a clear statement that the entire product is made without intentionally added PFAS.
Exposure can occur through contaminated drinking water, food, household dust and consumer products. The level of risk depends on the specific chemical, the amount and duration of exposure, and individual circumstances. Research has associated certain PFAS exposures with effects including changes in cholesterol, reduced vaccine response and impacts on liver, thyroid and reproductive health. Scientists continue to investigate these relationships.
Food packaging and takeaway containers
PFAS have been used in food-contact materials because they repel grease and oil. Common examples have historically included:
- Grease-resistant fast-food wrappers and burger papers
- Popcorn bags designed for microwave use
- Pizza boxes and bakery bags
- Paper plates, bowls and disposable cups
- Food trays and packaging for fried or oily products
- Some compostable or moulded-fibre food containers
Not every paper package contains PFAS, and regulations vary by country. In the United Kingdom and European Union, restrictions and product requirements are evolving, while other jurisdictions have introduced specific bans on PFAS in food packaging. Recycled paper and fibre-based packaging can also be treated with barrier coatings, so “paper” does not necessarily mean chemical-free.
How can you reduce contact? Choose fresh or minimally packaged food when possible, use reusable glass or stainless-steel containers, and avoid reheating takeaway food in its original packaging. Heat and grease can increase the transfer of some chemicals from packaging into food. A simple habit—moving food onto a ceramic plate before reheating—reduces reliance on disposable materials.
Non-stick cookware and kitchen products
Fluoropolymers such as PTFE have been used to create non-stick surfaces. PTFE is a type of fluorinated polymer and is often discussed in relation to PFAS, although its behaviour differs from smaller, mobile PFAS such as PFOA. Older manufacturing processes used PFOA, which has been restricted in many regions.
Non-stick pans are generally considered most concerning when they are overheated, damaged or poorly manufactured. A pan with a scratched coating is unlikely to release large quantities of intact PTFE under normal use, but replacing severely damaged cookware is sensible. Never heat an empty non-stick pan at very high temperatures, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
For people who want to avoid fluorinated non-stick coatings, alternatives include:
- Uncoated stainless steel
- Cast iron
- Carbon steel
- Glass and ceramic cookware, where the coating is clearly specified
“Ceramic non-stick” is not always the same as solid ceramic. Check the manufacturer’s materials information rather than relying only on the word “ceramic.”
Waterproof and outdoor clothing
PFAS have been valued in jackets, trousers, boots and gloves because they provide water and oil repellency. They may be found in durable water-repellent, or DWR, finishes used on:
- Rain jackets and waterproof trousers
- Hiking and mountaineering clothing
- Ski and snowboarding gear
- Workwear and protective clothing
- Water-resistant footwear
- Outdoor tents, backpacks and sleeping bags
Many manufacturers are now moving towards PFAS-free DWR treatments, but claims differ. A product labelled “PFC-free” may refer to certain long-chain chemicals rather than every PFAS. Look for explicit wording such as “contains no intentionally added PFAS” and consult the brand’s chemical management policy.
Do you need maximum water repellency for a daily commute? Probably not. Choosing a PFAS-free jacket for everyday use, repairing outdoor clothing and washing garments less frequently can reduce demand for new treatments. When a waterproof product reaches the end of its life, follow local textile recycling guidance rather than burning it or disposing of it improperly.
Stain-resistant carpets, sofas and textiles
PFAS-based treatments have been used to make carpets, upholstery, mattresses and rugs resistant to stains and spills. They may also appear in treated curtains, tablecloths and other household textiles.
These products can contribute to household dust, which is one possible route of exposure. Children may have higher contact with dust because they spend time on floors and frequently touch their mouths. Pets can also carry dust and residues on their fur.
When buying furniture or flooring, ask whether the item has a stain-resistant or soil-resistant treatment and whether it contains intentionally added PFAS. Select untreated fabrics where practical, or use washable, removable covers. Regular vacuuming with a well-maintained vacuum cleaner and damp dusting can help reduce household dust. Ventilation is useful too, although it cannot remove PFAS that are already present in materials.
Cosmetics and personal-care products
PFAS have been used in some cosmetics to improve spreadability, texture, durability and water resistance. Products that may contain fluorinated ingredients include:
- Waterproof mascara and long-wear eye makeup
- Liquid lipsticks and lip liners
- Foundation and concealer
- Face powders and other colour cosmetics
- Moisturisers and shaving products in some markets
Ingredient names may include terms such as “PTFE,” “perfluorononyl dimethicone,” “perfluorodecalin,” “trifluoromethyl” or other ingredients containing “fluoro” or “perfluoro.” This is not a complete screening method, and a confusing ingredient list is not proof that PFAS are present. Cosmetic formulations also vary between countries and may change over time.
Consumers can prioritise products from brands that publish full ingredient lists and clearly state that their formulations are PFAS-free. Be particularly cautious with products marketed as waterproof, transfer-proof or extremely long-lasting. These features are not automatically problematic, but they are reasons to check the ingredients and the manufacturer’s policy.
Dental floss and other medical or healthcare products
Some types of dental floss have historically used fluorinated coatings to make them slide more easily between teeth. Although exposure from one product may be limited, people use floss repeatedly over long periods, making product choice relevant for those who wish to reduce avoidable contact.
Other healthcare and medical applications may use fluorinated materials because they are chemically stable and resistant to contamination. These products can include specialised tubing, protective equipment and surgical materials. Patients should not stop using prescribed medical products without professional advice. Medical safety and performance must come first.
For everyday dental care, an uncoated floss or a product clearly labelled PFAS-free may be an alternative. Ask the manufacturer if the packaging does not provide enough information.
Firefighting foams and consumer fire products
Aqueous film-forming foams, known as AFFF, have been widely used to extinguish fires involving aviation fuel, petroleum and other flammable liquids. They can contain PFAS and are a significant source of contamination around airports, military facilities, refineries, fire-training sites and industrial locations.
Most households will not come into direct contact with professional firefighting foam. However, people living near known contaminated sites may face PFAS in private wells or local water supplies. If you live in such an area, check information from your water company, local authority or environmental regulator. Do not assume that boiling water will solve the problem: PFAS are not reliably removed by boiling.
Cleaning products, polishes and industrial materials
PFAS may be used in specialist cleaning products, floor finishes, waxes, polishes, paints, sealants and lubricants because they can improve spreading, durability or resistance to water and chemicals. These uses are generally more relevant in commercial and industrial settings than in ordinary household products, but product formulations are not always transparent.
Use only the amount recommended on the label, avoid mixing chemicals and select products with clear ingredient and environmental information. For routine household cleaning, simpler formulations are often sufficient. A mild detergent, water and mechanical cleaning can accomplish more than an aggressively marketed “high-performance” product.
How to identify PFAS in product labels
Product labelling is one of the most difficult parts of PFAS avoidance. There is no universal consumer symbol that covers every country and every category. A product may be advertised as PFOA-free while containing another PFAS, or as “fluorine-free” without explaining how that claim was verified.
Useful questions to ask include:
- Does the manufacturer state that the product contains no intentionally added PFAS?
- Does the claim apply to the entire product, including coatings, treatments and packaging?
- Is the information supported by independent testing or a recognised certification?
- Does the product use terms such as “fluoro,” “fluorocarbon,” “perfluoro” or “polyfluoro” in its ingredients or technical documentation?
- Can the company explain which alternative chemistry has been used?
Be wary of vague claims such as “eco-friendly,” “green” or “non-toxic.” These terms may refer to packaging, energy use or a particular ingredient and do not necessarily address PFAS.
PFAS-free water filtration: what works?
If PFAS are detected in drinking water, filtration may reduce exposure, but the technology matters. Activated carbon filters and reverse osmosis systems can reduce many PFAS when properly designed, maintained and certified. Performance depends on the specific PFAS, concentration, water chemistry, flow rate and filter replacement schedule.
Look for independent certification relevant to PFAS reduction, such as NSF/ANSI standards where applicable, and verify the exact product claim. A basic jug filter is not automatically effective against PFAS. Replace cartridges on schedule; an exhausted filter may no longer perform as expected.
Public water suppliers and environmental regulators should be the first source of information about local contamination. Private well owners in areas near industrial sites, airports, landfills or firefighting training grounds may need laboratory testing. Choose a laboratory that uses an appropriate, accredited method and reports the individual PFAS measured.
Practical ways to reduce everyday exposure
Consumers do not need to discard every waterproof jacket or replace every pan immediately. A targeted approach is more affordable and usually more effective:
- Prioritise PFAS-free alternatives for products used daily or in direct contact with food.
- Reduce reliance on grease-resistant takeaway packaging.
- Choose untreated or PFAS-free outdoor clothing when buying new items.
- Avoid overheating damaged non-stick cookware.
- Check cosmetics and dental products for fluorinated ingredients.
- Reduce dust through regular vacuuming and damp cleaning.
- Use certified filtration if testing shows PFAS in drinking water.
- Ask manufacturers specific questions instead of relying on broad environmental slogans.
PFAS are a pollution problem created largely through industrial production and inadequate chemical controls, not simply a matter of individual consumer choices. Personal actions can reduce exposure, but stronger regulation, transparent supply chains, safer product design and effective monitoring are essential to prevent contamination at its source.
The most useful question is not whether a product sounds modern, durable or convenient. It is whether those benefits depend on chemistry that persists long after the product has been thrown away. In many cases, a simpler alternative can do the job—with fewer hidden costs for water, wildlife and human health.