The first half of the 20th century was a great time for innovation. It brought us neon lights, vacuum cleaners, windshield wipers, pop-up toasters, ballpoint pens and instant coffee, to name just a few. All of these creations were designed to make our lives easier, but over time, some groundbreaking inventions have become a little more sinister.
Invented in the 1930s, PFAS chemistry, which refers to the use of per- and poly-fluorinated alkyl substances, has undoubtedly revolutionized many industries. That’s why we have things that are water-, grease- and stain-resistant, for example. Think nonstick pans and waterproof clothing. But while working, in recent years, experts have begun to realize that PFASs have a serious downside: Research suggests they can harm our health.
So, the solution seems simple, right? Avoid items made with PFAS. Unfortunately, it’s not that simple. These chemicals are in everything—for example, they’ve been found in drinking water, seafood, and now bananas. But before you panic: No, it’s not necessarily time to give up eating this nutrient-dense vegetable. Here’s what you need to know.
What is PFAS?
As mentioned above, PFAS stands for per- and poly-fluorinated alkyl substances, and they are actually quite convenient. “They are the unsung heroes of many industries, lending their superpowers to making products resistant to water, stains and heat,” Kimberly Kim, a geologist, industrial hygienist and environmental consultant, explained to VegNews. They are famous for their ability to repel grease and water, which makes them useful in things like cookware, clothing, and even firefighting foam.
“But here’s the twist,” says Kim. “They are called ‘forever chemicals’ because they do not naturally break down. They are guests we welcome into our environment and into our bodies.
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Are PFAS dangerous?
Research is still underway on what happens when PFAS enters our bodies, but so far the evidence suggests it’s not good.
“While PFAS may sound like industry miracle workers, they carry a hidden cost,” Kim adds. “These persistent chemicals have been linked to a laundry list of health concerns, including cancer, kidney disease, liver conditions, immune disorders and birth defects.”
And they are incredibly difficult to avoid. According to a new study, drinking water from nearly half of all faucets in the United States may contain them. In April 2023, another study found that PFAS used in packaging could end up in our food. And recently, research has confirmed that PFAS is even making its way into nutritious vegetables, such as kale.
“It’s a sobering thought that our most significant exposure to these chemicals often comes from something as essential and everyday as our food and water,” Kim said.
Should we stop eating kale now?
All of the above sounds quite related, no doubt. But it’s important to maintain perspective, experts say.
“Virtually all food has the potential to be contaminated with PFAS,” Christina Marusic, an award-winning journalist and author specializing in environmental health, explained to VegNews. “This study does not mean that all kale is contaminated with PFAS—the potential for any produce to be contaminated with PFAS depends on where and how it was grown and whether it came into contact with contaminated soil or water.”
It’s also important to remember that kale is a highly nutritious vegetable, with many health benefits. It is a source of antioxidants, which are plant compounds that can help reduce oxidative damage to the body, as well as vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C and vitamin K.
“The only way to stop these harmful exposures is through policies and regulations,” Marusik added. “So don’t stop eating healthy, nutritious vegetables like kale, but contact your lawmakers and tell them you want them to take action against PFAS.”
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And progress has been made on the PFAS issue in some areas. Marusik notes that Michigan, for example, recently passed “landmark legislation” to ban their non-essential use. Earlier this year, the European Union also began considering a ban on PFAS. If passed, it would be one of the largest bans on chemicals in Europe.
Kim agrees with Marusik that completely avoiding good sources of nutrients in our diet, such as kale, is not necessarily the right response to news of possible PFAS contamination.
“It is important to note that the source of the contamination is still not clear. It could be from contaminated water or from fields where sewage sludge was spread,” he explains. “Although this is concerning, it does not mean that we should stop eating kale altogether. Kale is a nutritious vegetable rich in vitamins and antioxidants. What we should be doing is better testing and regulating our food supply to ensure it is safe from harmful chemicals like PFAS.”
If you’re concerned, Kim notes that it’s also possible to buy water filters to remove PFAS from drinking water, and we can also be careful about the types of products we bring into our homes. For example, if you’re looking for new pans, consider choosing pans labeled “PTFE-free.” PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene) is a type of PFAS often used in nonstick cookware.
“Remember, the key is not to panic but to be aware of what we take in and make conscious choices,” says Kim. “As consumers, we have the power to demand safe and healthy food options. Let’s use that energy to protect our health and the health of our planet.”
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Charlotte is a writer and editor based in sunny Southsea on the south coast of England.