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Fast food points to toxic chemical exposure

A new study of a toxic chemical called PFAS reveals the food packaging that contains it may do harm to our bodies. PFAS, or per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances, refers to a class of chemicals used abundantly in common household items to make objects water or fire resistant. The study published in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives looked at levels of PFAS in people who ate fast food versus those who ate home-cooked meals. The study found five commonly used types of PFAS were found in the blood of about 70 percent of those surveyed. It is unclear at what threshold PFAS begins to take a toll on human health. A number of studies have linked the chemical to cancer, thyroid disorders, hormonal changes and weight gain.

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