Concerns over the presence of toxic "forever chemicals"—known scientifically as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)—in consumer products are on the rise as new studies shed light on their prevalence and potential health risks. These chemicals, which have been utilized widely since their invention, can be found lurking within everyday items, from pet food to personal care products.
According to Battelle, the world’s largest independent, nonprofit research and development organization, awareness among consumers has markedly increased. Amidst looming regulations, many companies are taking proactive measures to examine their supply chains for PFAS components, aiming to offer safer, PFAS-free products. Battelle has emerged as a key player by offering comprehensive testing and risk assessment services to manufacturers seeking to navigate this complex chemical terrain.
"We are not just testing for PFAS; we are helping companies understand their entire PFAS Landscape, from supply chain to final product," said Amy Dindal, PFAS Business Line Director at Battelle. The organization has developed various methods to pinpoint the specific PFAS present within products, which is increasingly important as regulatory pressures mount.
A recent analysis from Assent Inc., a leader in supply chain sustainability management, reinforced the pervasiveness of PFAS chemicals. Over 3 million declarations from manufacturers indicated substantial PFAS usage across global supply chains. Remarkably, 82% of manufacturers reported at least one declaration for parts containing these harmful substances, with 70% of those linked to the ten most commonly found PFAS, which account for significant supply chain risk. "PFAS chemicals have been used so broadly for decades, it's hard to image any manufacturer who won’t be critically impacted by federal and state regulations in 2025," cautioned Cally Edgren, vice president of regulatory and sustainability at Assent.
Research has shown alarming evidence of PFAS contamination occurring outside typical exposure routes, as evidenced by studies conducted near the Chemours plant in Fayetteville, North Carolina. Produce samples collected from local gardens unveiled PFAS levels higher than previously assumed, indicating potential food-related contamination from atmospheric emissions of these chemicals. All 53 samples taken between 2013 and 2019 contained detectable PFAS, underscoring the importance of monitoring air as an exposure source.
Detlef Knappe, a PFAS researcher at North Carolina State University, pointed out, "Exposure routes other than drinking water can be important and perhaps overlooked." He emphasized the health risks tied to daily consumption of contaminated food, noting the serious risks present even with small portions, such as ten blueberries potentially delivering dangerous levels of GenX, one of the PFAS produced at Chemours. The implication is clear: more comprehensive toxicity data is urgently needed to assess risks accurately.
This scenario only amplifies as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) faces scrutiny over its monitoring methods, leading critics to argue the detection thresholds are set too high, masking the true extent of food contamination. For consumers, this information is alarming—despite the apparent regulatory watch, the presence of PFAS continues to creep unnoticed within their daily lives.
Battelle’s efforts to mitigate PFAS risks go beyond merely identifying these substances. The organization has crafted innovative testing technologies and methodologies intended to help companies navigate regulatory requirements efficiently. For companies requesting information, Battelle is prepared to provide analytics capable of identifying PFAS constituents, ensuring businesses can take informed steps toward compliance.
Both Battelle and Assent’s quick responses to consumer demands, within the confines of tightening regulations, are indicative of the industry's push for improved supply chain transparency. Reports show manufacturers are feeling the urgency to get up to speed, especially with over 100 enacted or proposed regulations on PFAS close to implementation globally.
Looking to the future, both companies are urging proactive engagement from manufacturers. The impending need for thorough supply chain analyses has never been clearer. With imminent deadlines forcing compliance measures, the stakes are high for companies lagging behind. "Achieving supply chain visibility doesn’t happen overnight. Companies need to act quickly to identify alternatives to avoid disruptions to their operations," Edgren stressed.
Erasing PFAS from consumer products is not just about removing harmful substances; it's about safeguarding public health. The hard truth is these chemicals do not break down easily, persisting within the environment and accumulating through various food chains. Addressing this issue holistically is key as researchers continue to probe the extent of PFAS contamination.
With agencies pushing for stricter oversight, brands willing to take responsibility now may secure their market position, build customer trust, and contribute to the broader effort of minimizing hazardous exposures for all. Sustainable practices aren’t just market trends anymore; they're becoming necessities as consumers grow more vigilant about safety.