Polyfluoroalkyl: PFAS are man-made, so there are no natural sources in the environment. PFAS can travel long distances, move through soil, seep into groundwater, or be carried through air. Most of us are exposed to this family of chemicals and it can now be found in our bloodstreams. We get exposure both through food, think microwave popcorn containers to burger wrappers to our outdoor waterproof gear and carpeting.
The potential for health effects from PFAS in humans is not well understood but evolving. This family of chemicals also has members known as PFOS, PFOA, PFHxS and PFNA which have generally been studied more extensively than other PFAS. In general, animal studies have found that exposure to PFAS at high levels resulted in changes in the function of the liver, thyroid, pancreas, changes to hormone levels and cancer concerns.
