5 Practical Ways to Reduce Your Daily Exposure to Forever Chemicals
PFAS chemicals lurk in your water, food, and everyday products. Here's how to limit your exposure with simple, actionable steps.
What Are 'Forever Chemicals' and Why Should You Care?
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances — commonly known as PFAS or 'forever chemicals' — have quietly worked their way into nearly every corner of modern life. From the water flowing out of your tap to the pan you cook your breakfast in, these synthetic compounds are remarkably difficult to avoid. Investigative reporter Mara Hoplamazian, who has spent years covering water contamination issues across New England for New Hampshire Public Radio, has developed a deep understanding of how these chemicals spread — and what everyday people can do to reduce their exposure.
Research has consistently linked PFAS exposure to serious health risks, including certain types of cancer, hormone disruption, and immune system complications. The nickname 'forever chemicals' reflects a troubling reality: these substances do not break down naturally in the environment or in the human body, meaning they accumulate over time.
Where Are Forever Chemicals Hiding?
Understanding where PFAS show up is the first step toward limiting your contact with them. These chemicals are commonly found in:
- Drinking water — particularly in communities near industrial sites or military bases
- Food packaging — including grease-resistant wrappers and microwave popcorn bags
- Nonstick cookware — such as Teflon-coated frying pans
- Water-resistant clothing — like raincoats and outdoor gear
- Personal care products — including certain brands of dental floss
5 Ways to Reduce Your Everyday Exposure to PFAS
1. Filter Your Drinking Water
Drinking water represents one of the most significant routes of PFAS exposure for the general population. Installing a certified water filter — particularly one using reverse osmosis or activated carbon technology — can dramatically reduce the concentration of these chemicals in your tap water. Look for filters independently certified to remove PFAS by organizations such as NSF International.
2. Swap Out Your Nonstick Cookware
Traditional nonstick pans are often coated with PFAS-based materials. When these coatings are scratched or exposed to high heat, they can release chemicals into your food. Consider replacing them with safer alternatives such as cast iron, stainless steel, or ceramic cookware, which offer excellent cooking performance without the chemical risk.
3. Rethink Your Food Packaging Choices
Fast food wrappers, microwave popcorn bags, and certain takeout containers are frequently treated with PFAS to resist grease and moisture. Reducing your consumption of heavily packaged processed foods — and transferring food to glass or stainless steel containers when possible — can meaningfully cut down on your chemical intake.
4. Choose PFAS-Free Personal Care and Household Products
Some dental flosses, cosmetics, and cleaning products contain PFAS compounds. When shopping, look for products that are explicitly labeled PFAS-free. Several consumer advocacy organizations publish updated guides to help shoppers identify safer alternatives across a wide range of product categories.
5. Be Cautious With Water-Resistant Clothing and Gear
Many waterproof and stain-resistant fabrics are treated with PFAS-based coatings known as DWR (durable water repellent). While the exposure risk from clothing is generally lower than from water or food, frequent contact and washing can release these chemicals into the environment and potentially onto your skin. Seek out outdoor apparel brands that have committed to using PFAS-free treatments.
The Bigger Picture
While individual choices can help reduce personal exposure, experts emphasize that systemic change is equally essential. Regulatory bodies in the United States and Europe are increasingly moving to restrict or ban certain PFAS compounds, and public pressure continues to push manufacturers toward safer alternatives. Staying informed, supporting stronger environmental regulations, and making mindful consumer decisions are all meaningful steps in addressing the broader forever chemicals crisis.
