In a new study published in the journal Environmental Science & Technology Letters, researchers at the University of Notre Dame (USA) have succeeded in demonstrating that PFAS, commonly referred to as “eternal pollutants”, can migrate into food products and solvents within a week. A first.
PFAS are perfuoroalkylated substances, chemical compounds, used since the 1950s and present in certain clothing, in cosmetics or in food packaging. PFAS are known to degrade (very) slowly, hence their nickname “eternal chemicals”.
Rise in cholesterol, cancers, fertility problems…
According to this study, PFAS are able to migrate from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) fluorinated plastic containers into food, exposing consumers directly to hazardous chemicals. Indeed, these same substances are responsible for several health problems such as cancers of the prostate, kidneys and testicles, and thyroid diseases. “PFAS cause an increase in cholesterol levels, can lead to cancer, cause effects on fertility and fetal development. They are also suspected of interfering with the endocrine (thyroid) and immune system”, warns ANSES.
To reach this conclusion, the researchers analyzed the concentrations of PFAS in olive oil, ketchup and mayonnaise, which remained in contact with fluorinated plastic containers for seven days. “Based on the amount found in the different food samples, the study estimates that enough PFAS could be ingested from the food stored in the containers to pose a significant exposure risk,” the report said. study.
These types of containers are not normally intended for food storage. But for all that, “nothing prevents them from being used for food preservation at the present time”, explain the researchers in their press release.