EWG’s Guide to Avoiding PFAS Chemicals | Environmental Working Group
Per- or polyfluorochemicals, known as PFAS chemicals, are a family of chemicals that are widely used to make water-, grease- and stain-repellent coatings.
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Added
March 25, 2026
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parent
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Grade 9 (Freshman)–Grade 12 (Senior)
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Introduction
Understanding and Avoiding PFAS Chemicals
- Definition: PFAS (per- or polyfluorochemicals) are a family of chemicals used primarily for water-, grease-, and stain-repellent coatings.
- Common Uses: They are found in a wide variety of consumer goods and industrial applications.
- Health and Environmental Risks: These chemicals are "notoriously persistent," meaning they do not break down easily in the environment or the human body, and are linked to serious health issues.
- EWG Resources:
- Tap Water Database: A tool to check for the presence of PFAS in local water supplies.
- Fast Food Report: A 2017 study highlighting the prevalence of these chemicals in food packaging.
- Primary Goal: The Environmental Working Group (EWG) provides specific guidance to help consumers identify and avoid exposure to these substances.
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