Perfluorinated chemicals

Perfluorinated chemicals are widely used for their resistance to environmental breakdown in a range of consumer products. PFOS (perfluorooctane sulfonate) is used as a stain repellent on clothing and other fabric products, such as carpets. This chemical is also used in food packaging, particularly for fast food and microwave popcorn bags. Another perfluorinated chemical of concern is PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid), which is used to make Goretex and Teflon products, such as non-stick cookware. Although much more research is needed on these chemicals, existing studies have shown that perfluorinated chemicals are extremely persistent. Studies also suggest that these chemicals can cause cancer and disrupt hormones.