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News Coverage

Teflon issue

Dayton Daily News, James Cummings
Published February 9, 2006

... In late January, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced a program to reduce the presence of the chemical Perfluoroctanoic acid (PFOA) in the environment. PFOA is a man-made chemical that doesn't break down easily, and it has been found in low levels in wildlife and humans. PFOA is used in the manufacture of Teflon and other nonstick surfaces, in stain-resistance treatments for carpet and other fabrics, and in grease-resistant food packaging. The lining of some microwave popcorn bags use coatings made with manufacturing processing using PFOA, for instance. Research is continuing on the potential harmful effects of PFOA, and the Washington-based consumer activist agency the Environmental Working Group cites early studies indicating the chemical may be a carcinogen. So should you throw out your frying pans, pull up your carpets and swear off microwave popcorn? To date there seem to be no documented health effects in humans, though some animal tests are troubling. It may not be time for drastic action yet, but keep your ears open for further developments.
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