Lawsuit alleges EPA concealed health risks of PFAS in plastic containers

(NaturalHealth365)  As time passes, it’s becoming clearer that many health issues stem from synthetic chemicals in everyday products.  Among these, polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) stand out as particularly problematic.  They’ve been prevalent in various products since the mid-20th century.

PFAS are commonly found in protective coatings and items resistant to stains, grease, oil, and heat.  Think non-stick cookware, food packaging, adhesives, furniture, and clothing.  Recently, a lawsuit has surfaced, accusing the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of concealing the health risks associated with PFAS.

Is the EPA trying to conceal the risks of PFAS used in plastic containers?

If the accusations made in the lawsuit linked above are true, the EPA went to great lengths to conceal the health risks of the plastic containers everyone uses daily.  The suit alleges the EPA illegally concealed evidence that plastic containers’ PFAs were unsafe for human use.  The legal action was taken by two environmental groups, the Center for Environmental Health and Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility.

It appears that the EPA might have intentionally withheld information about toxic forever chemicals in polyethylene plastic containers of the high-density variety.  Such an action is illegal as it constitutes the willful concealment of safety and health data pertaining to the toxicity of PFAS.

The EPA’s response to the allegation is concerning

The EPA has refuted the claims made in the lawsuit and has declined to disclose data regarding the alleged use of toxic PFAS in plastic products.  The agency cited confidential business agreements with manufacturers, such as Inhance Technologies, as the reason for not publicizing such information.

Last year, the environmental groups in question sought additional details about these plastic products through the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).  However, the EPA allegedly withheld information about the use of toxic PFAS and redacted certain details to avoid exposure, criticism, and potential legal consequences.

Lawyers representing the environmental groups argue that the EPA is leveraging confidentiality agreements with plastic manufacturers to keep health and safety risks hidden from the public.  On the other hand, EPA attorneys assert that there are legal grounds for concealing PFAS information and cite obligations to corporate partners.

If the allegations are proven true, it would suggest negligence on the part of the EPA towards taxpayers, who ultimately fund the agency.  Prioritizing corporate interests over public health could indicate a breach of the EPA’s duty of care to taxpayers.  Should the lawsuit result in a ruling against the EPA, it would signify a failure to uphold its mission of protecting public health.

Steps you can take to avoid PFAS exposure

Here are some steps you can take to minimize your exposure to PFAS:

1. Avoid plastic containers:  Refrain from using plastic containers whenever possible, especially for storing food. Opt for glass or stainless steel containers instead.
2. Don’t Use a Microwave:  Never microwave food for any reason to avoid destroying the quality of your food, especially if the food is in plastic containers, as this can cause PFAS chemicals to leach into your food.
3. Choose packaging wisely:  Be mindful when purchasing food products and opt for items that are not packaged in plastic.  Give preference to organic fruits and vegetables, which are less likely to be packaged in plastic.
4. Research products:  If you or your family members still use plastic containers, do some research to identify if they are manufactured by companies like Inhance that use PFAS in their production processes.
5. Avoid perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA):  Specifically, avoid plastic containers containing perfluorooctanoic acid, as it is known to be carcinogenic.

By taking these precautions, you can help reduce your exposure to PFAS and minimize potential health risks associated with these chemicals.

Sources for this article include:

Childrenshealthdefense.org
Peer.org

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