According to a recent study, rainwater contains “forever chemicals” that cause cancer.
In a study published in the journal Environmental Science & Technology, researchers from Stockholm University and ETH Zurich found residues of per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as “forever chemicals,” in rainwater.
PFAS are synthetic chemicals made by humans that have been linked to hormone disruption, cancer, reproductive problems, and problems with fetal development since the 1940s.
Those who enjoy a good rain dance may wish to bring some drinks with them the next time they feel thirsty.
Professor at the Department of Environmental Science Stockholm University and lead author of the study Ian Cousins said in a statement: “Based on the latest U.S. guidelines for PFOA in drinking water, rainwater everywhere would be judged unsafe to drink.
“Although in the industrial world we don’t often drink rainwater, many people around the world expect it to be safe to drink and it supplies many of our drinking water sources.”
He also warned that PFAS are found in the snow, even in the ‘most remote parts of the world.
For their tendency to remain forever, PFAS earned the name “forever chemicals” — which makes sense.
We must all exercise caution when it rains since, although being phased out by major manufacturers, the study indicates that it is still prevalent in the environment.
However, worries extend beyond rainwater.
According to a study by the Ecology Centre, which included samples from 10 well-known retail brands, 79% of the nonstick cooking pans examined had polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) coatings.
Additionally, 20% of nonstick baking pans were found to have remnants of PTFE.
Ecology Centre environmental health advocate Melissa Cooper Sargent said via a press release: “Companies often tell us certain chemicals are not in a product.
“But when they don’t tell us what is in the product, we cannot easily make an informed choice.”
Dr. Gillian Miller at the Ecology Centre also warned: “Non-stick pans coated with PTFE are convenient, but unnecessary, and contribute to the severe problem of PFAS pollution.
“When you need a new pan, consider a more durable and less harmful replacement.”
