Our hasty rush to abandon plastic must not cause us to fall into other types of errors, thanks to the "needs" of the market. Paper straws, for example: have been presented as a sustainable solution to their plastic counterparts. Well, we may have to seriously reconsider this perception.
A European study has revealed that 90% of paper straws, promoted as eco-friendly, actually contain persistent chemical compounds, known as PFAS or "forever chemicals". These substances, due to their resistant nature, can accumulate in our bodies and the environment, posing potential health risks. How is it possible? And what does this mean for consumers trying to make responsible choices?
The dilemma of “forever chemicals”
PFAS, also known as “forever chemicals” due to their resistance to degradation, are a class of more than 12.000 chemical compounds. These compounds are known for their persistence in the environment and their ability to accumulate in human bodies.
The main source of exposure for humans is usually through food and drinking water. However, as the study revealed, paper straws can also be a source of exposure.
The research behind the revelation on paper straws
Researchers ofUniversity of Antwerp in Belgium have analyzed straws made of paper (and also of various materials, including glass, Bamboo, stainless steel and of course plastic). They tested 39 different brands for the presence of 29 different PFAS compounds. I link the study here.
Surprisingly, 69% of the brands tested contained PFAS. Paper straws were the ones with the highest probability of finding any, with 90% of brands tested which showed traces of these compounds.
Health implications
Although the PFAS concentrations found were not high, the real problem with these compounds is their bioaccumulation. This means that even when absorbed in small amounts, they can build up in the body over time.
Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), for example: a chemical associated with various health problems. Well (i.e. badly), it was the most frequently detected compound. It is important to note, however, that PFOA is expected to be banned globally by 2020.
Paper straws: and now what to do?
The presence of PFAS in paper straws raises questions about their biodegradability e sustainability. The researchers suggest opting for stainless steel straws or, better yet, avoiding the use of straws entirely.
As we await new information about the chemicals around us, it is essential that we stay informed and make informed choices. As always, the key is awareness and informed action. Otherwise, everyone will have their time divided between optimists and pessimists of technologies, while serenely sipping their drink. With paper straws, of course.
For more information and enrichment:
PFAS as emerging contaminants with broad exposure
- Title: “Perfluoroalkyl substances and fish consumption”
- Year: 2017
- Summary: PFAS are considered emerging contaminants with widespread exposure, persistence and potential for adverse health effects. [K. Christensen et al., Environmental Research, 2017]
- Research links
Restricting the use and emissions of PFAS
- Title: “Outside the Safe Operating Space of a New Planetary Boundary for Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)”
- Year: 2022
- Summary: Due to the poor reversibility of environmental exposure to PFAS and their associated effects, it is critical that the use and emissions of PFAS be rapidly limited. [THE. Cousins et al., Environmental Science & Technology, 2022]
- Research links
Presence of PFAS in plant-based materials
- Title: “Addressing Urgent Questions for PFAS in the 21st Century”
- Year: 2021
- Summary: Given the diversity of PFAS and their uses, their extreme persistence, and the lack of critical information, the scientific and regulatory communities need to work together to fill critical data gaps and protect human health and the environment. [Carla A. Ng et al., Environmental science & technology, 2021]
- Research links
