Officials looking into the public health ramifications of PFAS contamination.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) opened an investigation last month into the impact of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in seafood. PFAS are a family of chemicals used to make surfaces non-stick, greaseproof, or waterproof. Due to their wide application, PFAS are found in raincoats, take-out containers, water bottles, sunscreens, and countless other products.
However, once leached into the environment, the microscopic chemicals are estimated to take thousands of years to break down, a phenomenon that gave PFAS the nickname “forever chemicals.” The quantities of PFAS that have been discovered in food, natural water supplies, and the human body, have caused federal officials concern about the variety of health complications, including liver damage, thyroid disease, pregnancy complications, and cancer, they may cause.
“Addressing potential effects of Americans’ PFAS exposure is a national priority and is coordinated across several federal agencies,” the FDA stated. “Through these interagency collaborations, we are working to identify routes of PFAS exposure, understand associated health risks, and reduce the public’s dietary exposure to PFAS that may pose health concerns.”
The agency issued a request for information from scientists and the general public.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For FDA Commissioner Califf as he oversees the agency’s investigation into the impact of forever chemicals on the nation’s food and water supplies.
- For wisdom for FDA officials as they assess and authorize food and drug approvals.
Sources: The Hill, Food Safety News
