Are Perfluorooctanoic acids (PFOAs) still used in cookware in the US and do they pose a health concern?

PFOAs in Cookware: Health Concerns and Current Usage in the US

PFOAs pose significant health risks including immune system suppression, cancer, and reproductive issues, and while they have been largely phased out of cookware in the US, related PFAS compounds continue to be used in some products and remain environmental contaminants of concern. 1

Health Concerns Associated with PFOAs

PFOAs (Perfluorooctanoic acids) and related PFAS (Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) compounds present multiple documented health risks:

• Immune System Effects: The strongest evidence for PFAS immunotoxicity is reduced antibody production in response to vaccinations, particularly for tetanus and diphtheria 1
• Cancer Risk: Associated with increased risks of kidney and testicular cancers 1
• Reproductive Health: Linked to decreased fertility and hormone disruption 1, 2
• Developmental Effects: Can cause neonatal death and developmental delays 3
• Metabolic Effects: Associated with increased serum lipids and liver enzymes 3, 4
• Other Health Impacts: Effects on endocrine system, liver function, and decreased birth weight 1, 5

These health concerns are particularly troubling because PFAS compounds:

• Are extremely persistent in the environment (called "forever chemicals") 1
• Bioaccumulate in the human body with a half-life of approximately 3 years 4
• Can affect humans at even relatively low exposure levels 1
• Have been linked to adverse effects at general population exposure levels 3

Current Status in US Cookware

The regulatory landscape and usage patterns of PFOAs in cookware have evolved:

• Phase-Out Status: Long-chain PFAS (including PFOA) have been largely discontinued in the US 1
• Replacement Compounds: Manufacturers have shifted to shorter-chain PFAS compounds as replacements 1, 6
• Current Exposure: Despite phase-outs, ultrashort- and short-chain PFAAs are now abundant in indoor environments and detected in humans 6
• Ongoing Concerns: These replacement compounds share similar environmental persistence characteristics with their longer-chain predecessors 1

Exposure Pathways

PFAS exposure occurs through multiple routes:

• Primary Routes: Ingestion, dermal exposure, and inhalation 1
• Common Sources:
  • Contaminated drinking water (a major source) 1
  • Food contamination from non-stick wrappers 5
  • Indoor dust 6
  • Personal care products 5

Special Considerations for Vulnerable Populations

• Infants and Children: Particularly vulnerable to PFAS developmental effects and receive higher exposures than adults from the same drinking water source 3
• Pregnant Women: PFAS exposure during pregnancy has been associated with decreased birth weight 3

Recommendations for Reducing Exposure

Given the health concerns associated with PFAS compounds:

• Consider using alternative cookware materials such as stainless steel, cast iron, or ceramic
• Filter drinking water if living in areas with known PFAS contamination
• Minimize use of products with water-resistant or stain-resistant coatings
• Be cautious of food packaging materials, particularly greaseproof paper products

Regulatory Status

The regulatory approach to PFAS is evolving:

• PFOA and PFOS have been incorporated into the Stockholm Convention due to their environmental persistence, toxicity, and bioaccumulation 1
• The EPA has been working to establish maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for certain PFAS in drinking water 1
• Despite regulatory efforts, PFAS contamination remains widespread, with recent studies revealing PFAS in approximately 50% of tap water samples throughout the United States 1