Toxic ‘forever chemicals' found in pesticides used on food, in homes and on pets, study finds

Called ’ forever chemicals ’ because of how long they remain in the human body and environment, perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, are a growing health concern. Present in the blood of an estimated 98% of Americans, the hormone-disrupting chemicals are so worrisome that authorities set ’nanogram’ levels of concern and called for testing of high-risk individuals, including infants and older adults. In April, historic rules were announced to strictly control levels of five of the most studied PFAS in the nation’s drinking water. However, a new study takes a closer look at yet another, little studied avenue of possible exposure — the existence of PFAS in pesticides used in both agricultural and residential pest control, including pet flea treatments. Food staples such as apples, corn, kale, spinach, strawberries, and wheat are frequently sprayed with PFAS-containing pesticides. The study authors found that 14% of all active ingredients in pesticides are PFAS, which are intentionally added to improve the product’s ability to eliminate pests.