Where It Comes From
Coatings for food packaging and paper, stain‑ and water‑repellent treatments for textiles/carpets, and industrial surface treatments; PFAS manufacturing and use sites [1][2].
How You Are Exposed
Food that contacts grease‑resistant packaging, indoor dust from treated furnishings, drinking water near facilities, and workplace handling; some consumer products [1][2].
Why It Matters
Data on this exact polymer are limited, but related PFAS can degrade to perfluoroalkyl acids (e.g., PFOA, PFHxA). PFAS exposure has been linked to immune effects, increased cholesterol, liver and developmental effects, and certain cancers (for PFOA) [1][2][3].
Who Is at Risk
Workers in PFAS production/finishing, communities with contaminated water, pregnant people and infants (greater sensitivity) [1][2].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Choose PFAS‑free packaging and stain‑repellent‑free textiles, limit contact with takeout packaging, wet‑clean dust, ventilate, use activated carbon or reverse‑osmosis water filters, and follow workplace safety practices [1][2].
References
- [1]ATSDR. Toxicological Profile for Perfluoroalkyls (PFAS). 2021.
- [2]U.S. EPA. PFAS Explained / Human Health and Environmental Risks of PFAS. 2022–2024.
- [3]IARC Monographs Volume 131. Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). 2023.