Toxic Teflon

In 2006, under pressure from the U.S. EPA, DuPont and 7 other companies promised to phase out by 2015 a cancer-causing chemical called PFOA (Perfluorochemicals), used to make Teflon and also found in grease-resistant coatings for food packaging (like microwave popcorn). In its place, the chemical industry is pushing new, supposedly “green” food package coatings.

Perfluorochemicals are found in carpets and on clothes, on fast-food wrappers, and on the inner lining of pet food bags. You might know them as Teflon®, ScotchgardTM, Stainmaster® and Gore-Tex®. They pollute water, are persistent in the environment, and remain in the human body for years.

PFCs are associated with smaller birth weight and size in newborn babies, elevated cholesterol, abnormal thyroid hormone levels, liver inflammation, and weaker immune defense against disease--all good reasons to reduce your exposure.

What can you do?
Avoid the optional stain treatment on new carpets and furniture.

Find products that haven’t been pre-treated, and if the couch you own is treated, get a cover for it.

Choose clothing that doesn’t carry Teflon® or ScotchgardTM tags. This includes fabric labeled stain- or water-repellent. When possible, opt for untreated cotton and wool.

Avoid non-stick pans and kitchen utensils.

Cut back on greasy packaged and fast foods. These foods often come in treated wrappers.

Use real plates instead of paper.

Pop popcorn the old-fashioned way on the stovetop. Microwaveable popcorn bags are often coated with PFCs on the inside.

Choose personal care products without “PTFE” or “perfluoro” in the ingredients.