Airborne Toxins

Sometimes an everyday product choice can make a world of difference. Below are some new studies that reveal how some cookware, raincoats, carpets, shoes and pesticides can expose the people who manufacture them—and our families—to problematic chemicals. Check out our healthier alternatives.

Toxic Chemicals in Teflon
New information is coming to light about the toxic effects of a chemical used in making non-stick coatings such as Teflon. The chemical goes by the name PFOA (short for perfluorooctanoic acid), or C8, and is also used in the manufacture of food wrap and water- and stain-resistant fabric coatings.

Studies presented at a March 2005 national toxicology meeting show that PFOA exposure during pregnancy causes miscarriage and low birth weight in mice; many of the exposed offspring went on to experience delayed puberty. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which conducted these studies, is evaluating the possible human health risks of PFOA. Animal studies have shown that PFOA, in addition to harming development, is also linked to hypothyroidism and cancer.

For years, these chemicals, which do not break down easily, have spread throughout the environment and our bodies. A 2001 survey of nearly 600 children found PFOA in the blood of 96 percent of the individuals sampled. Another member of the perfluorocarbon family, PFOS, was long used in Scotchgard until it was phased out of production in 2000 because of its spread into the environment and human beings. "The most important part of this is that these chemicals are in everyone's blood," says Timothy J. Kropp, Ph.D., senior scientist at the Environmental Working Group. And there is growing evidence that the parent chemical in some consumer products can break down and release PFOA, Dr. Kropp adds.

What you can do
*Teflon does not release PFOA during normal cooking, so follow manufacturer's directions and don't overheat when using Teflon pans.
*If buying a new pan, choose cast iron, stainless steel or enameled cookware.
*Avoid buying outerwear, furniture and carpets that have been treated with stain- and water-resistant finishes, which may release PFOA. Safer raincoat alternatives: tightly woven untreated cloth, natural rubber or wax-coated cotton coats.
*Although Scotchgard has been reformulated, few studies on the replacement chemical are available. When buying furniture, seek untreated, tightly woven natural fabrics such as water-repellent wool.