The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) tightened regulations on forever chemicals, also known as PFAS in drinking water in April. With this action, the health hazards that these chemicals pose to about 100 million Americans will be reduced. There are no federal rules addressing PFAS in food, which has caused serious worries among scientists and people alike. This is in spite of the new drinking water regulations.
A staple of many diets, milk can be added to coffee, cereal, or just drinking. There is a increasing concern about PFAS in milk. These substances, which are typically used for their stain and waterproofing resistance can linger in the environment and have been connected to major health concerns like cancer, immunological disorders, endocrine disruption, and infertility.
PFAS pollution in the water and soil is being seen more by dairy farms, which has impacted milk produced by cows. Consumer Reports began an investigation to check for PFAS in milk in order to look at this rising issue.
Fifty samples of whole milk from supermarkets across five states were examined by CR. The examinations produced some unsettling findings:
Six out of the fifty milk samples examined contained PFOS and PFOA, the two PFAS most frequently associated with negative health effects.
Even while the bulk of tests were clear of these pollutants, the discovery of PFAS in some samples draws attention to a serious omission in the laws governing food safety.
Notwithstanding these results, CR recommends against removing milk entirely from diets on the basis of this study alone. In order to protect public health, the FDA is called upon to set and implement limits on PFAS in every day foods, as demonstrated by these findings. In response to Consumer Report’s analysis, the International Dairy Foods Association said that control and verification procedures are used to guarantee the safety of dairy products.
There are a number of actions that can be performed to lessen exposure for individuals who are worried about PFAS. Steer clear of anything treated with perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS): This includes carpets and clothes that are waterproof and stain-resistant, as well as cookware that is non-stick and contains PTFE. Instead, choose cookware covered with ceramic.
Drinking water should be tested and filtered. At-home water tests can detect PFAS pollution. If PFAS are present, utilizing a water filter approved to remove them can greatly lower exposure.
Although the latest research on PFAS in milk raises concerns, the problem of uncontrolled chemicals in food is more widespread. This emphasizes how urgently strict regulations are required to guarantee food safety. In the meanwhile, individuals might adopt proactive measures to restrict their exposure to these poisonous substances.
Reverse osmosis filtration is a useful tool for lowering PFAS levels in drinking water. Water is forced across a semi-permeable membrane by this device in order to remove pollutants, including PFAS. Whole-home water conditioners also have the ability to further filter water, guaranteeing that no hazardous chemicals are present in any household water supply and making it safer to drink, cook, and bathe in.
Source: KVUE ABC