New research reveals a significant association between the consumption of certain common foods and increased levels of harmful PFAS chemicals in the human body.
Tom Perkins reports for The Guardian.
In short:
- A study of 3,000 pregnant women found high PFAS levels in those consuming more white rice, coffee, eggs, seafood and red meat.
- PFAS, known as "forever chemicals," are linked to severe health issues, including cancer and birth defects, and do not naturally break down.
- Regulators have focused on water contamination, but this study highlights food as a significant exposure route.
Key quote:
"The results definitely point toward the need for environmental stewardship, and keeping PFAS out of the environment and food chain."
— Megan Romano, Dartmouth researcher and lead study author
Why this matters:
Understanding the food sources of PFAS is important for reducing exposure to these harmful chemicals, which are associated with severe health risks and persist in the environment. Read more: PFAS: Hard to escape in food, clothes, and makeup.
