It seems as if PFAS, “forever chemicals,” are everywhere in the news. That is because they are everywhere in the environment… and in you. 97% of humans have toxic Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) in their blood. PFAS are very persistent. They don’t break down and they accumulate over time.
PFAS can be found in food packaging, household products, non-stick cookware, water repellent fabrics, cosmetics, drinking water, wastewater sludge, fire-fighting foam and gear, the workplace and throughout the environment.
Exposure to PFAS may lead to low infant birth weights, cancer, a compromised immune system, and thyroid disruption. There is evidence of liver damage, decreased fertility, and hormone disruption. PFAS may impair a vaccination response including for Covid-19.
PFAS is a Climate Justice issue.
It impacts farm workers exposed through PFAS contaminated sludge fertilizer. It is a higher burden in urban areas. “Some of the highest PFAS levels detected (in drinking water) were in samples from major metropolitan areas.” (Environmental Working Group, Jan. 2020)
Help reduce and ban PFAS chemicals by supporting bill S.1494 / H.2348: An Act to ban the use of PFAS in food packaging (Moore / Lewis)
This bill prohibits the sale of food packaging products, beginning January 1, 2023, in which PFAS are added intentionally to the packaging. It also requires that food packaging manufacturers present a certificate of compliance.
Call/email your senators and representatives NOW.
Ask them to support S.1494 / H.2348. You can also contact the Chairs of the Joint Committee on Public Health to support this bill to remove PFAS from packaging.
Find your state representatives here. Click on Find my Legislator. To contact the Chairs of the Joint Committee on Public Health click here.
Introduce yourself, give your address and say, “The reason I am calling is to ask that (Legislator’s name) votes in support of S.1494/H.2348 to remove PFAS from food packaging.
For more information, email Connie Glore