In the present day, across the globe, people are abandoning plastic and embracing eco-friendly options such as paper and plant-based food packaging. These alternatives are celebrated for their adaptability and minimal impact on the environment, but there lurks a sinister truth behind their seemingly innocent facade: the presence of “forever chemicals.” These chemicals have been linked to health hazards like cancer, infertility, and disruption of the endocrine system.
A study carried out by the International Pollutants Elimination Network (IPEN) has revealed that these harmful “forever chemicals,” known as PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), are present in various types of disposable food packaging. The research took place in 17 countries spanning Africa, Europe, Latin America, the Caribbean, and Asia, including the Philippines. The aim of the study is to contribute to the global initiative to universally ban all PFAS substances.
PFAS are frequently used in food packaging due to their resistance to grease, making them ideal for items like baking paper, fast-food containers, and microwave popcorn bags. However, the unfortunate truth is that these chemicals are released into the environment throughout the entire lifecycle of the products, from production to disposal. Furthermore, many consumers are unaware of the presence and quantity of PFAS in these products due to lack of disclosure.
The study collected samples of various food packaging items in South and Southeast Asia and discovered that a significant portion of these samples contained PFAS or showed levels indicating the presence of PFAS. Molded products made from plant-based fibers and microwave popcorn bags were among the worst offenders in terms of PFAS levels. Only a small percentage of positive sample extracts could be linked with specific PFAS, demonstrating the challenges of chemical traceability and regulation without proper labelling.
One of the most worrisome aspects of PFAS is that they are known to migrate from food packaging into the food itself. Consumption of food packed in PFAS-treated paper has been associated with increased levels of PFAS in human blood. These chemicals are also readily absorbed by the human body and have been linked to various health issues, including an increased risk of thyroid disease, high cholesterol levels, fertility issues, and even cancer.
The environmental impact of PFAS found in food packaging is equally troubling. The continued use of these chemicals in disposable food packaging contradicts the fact that they are meant to be used for a very short time before being thrown away. PFAS from these products have resulted in increasing levels of contamination of the air, water, and soil. Additionally, factories that produce paper treated with PFAS release these harmful substances into the air and wastewater, contributing to pollution in the surrounding environment.
In response to these findings, the International Pollutants Elimination Network (IPEN) has called for a global ban on the entire class of PFAS and the use of safer alternatives in food packaging. They also urged national governments and fast-food chains to take action in banning PFAS uses, improving chemical transparency, and transitioning to PFAS-free alternatives. Consumers are also advised to avoid using disposable food packaging whenever possible and to bring their own reusable containers.
It’s evident that the prevalence of PFAS in food packaging poses a significant threat to both human health and the environment. The study serves as a wake-up call for governments, industries, and consumers to take action in eliminating these harmful “forever chemicals” from our everyday lives. By embracing safer alternatives and advocating for greater transparency, we can protect our health and the planet from the dangerous impact of PFAS.
