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- Scientists assessed 39 brands of straws for the group of chemicals known as PFAS
- PFAS were most common in straws made from paper and bamboo
We may all think we’re doing our bit for the planet by sipping our drinks out of a paper straw.
But the “eco-friendly” alternatives contain long-lasting and potentially toxic chemicals, a new study finds.
In the first analysis of its kind in Europe, Belgian researchers tested 39 brands of straws for the group of synthetic chemicals known as poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).
PFAS was found in the majority of straws tested and was most prevalent in straws made from paper and bamboo.
The synthetic chemicals are used to make everyday products, from outdoor clothing to non-stick pans, resistant to water, heat and stains.
We may all think we’re doing our bit for the planet by sipping our drinks out of a paper straw. But the ‘eco-friendly’ alternatives contain long-lasting and potentially toxic chemicals, a new study finds (stock image)
However, they are potentially harmful to humans, wildlife and the environment.
The substances break down very slowly over time and can persist in the environment for thousands of years, a property that has led to them being known as “forever chemicals.”
They have been linked to a number of health problems, including lower vaccine responses, lower birth weight, thyroid disease, elevated cholesterol, liver damage, kidney cancer, and testicular cancer.
The research team purchased 39 different brands of straws made from five materials: paper, bamboo, glass, stainless steel and plastic.
The straws, which were mainly bought from shops, supermarkets and fast food restaurants, were then tested twice for PFAS.
The research team bought 39 different brands of drinking straw, made from five materials: paper, bamboo, glass, stainless steel and plastic (stock image)
Analysis showed that the majority of brands (69 percent) contained PFAS, with a total of 18 different PFAS detected.
Paper straws most likely contain the synthetic chemicals.
The most common PFAS, perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), has been banned worldwide since 2020.
Trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) and trifluoromethanesulfonic acid (TFMS) were also detected: ‘ultra-short chain’ PFAS, which are highly soluble in water and can therefore leach from straws into drinks.
PFAS concentrations were low and – because most people use straws only occasionally – pose a limited risk to human health. However, PFAS can persist in the body for years and concentrations can build up over time.
The authors advised people to use stainless steel straws, or not to use straws at all.
‘Reeds made from plant-based materials, such as paper and bamboo, are often advertised as more sustainable and environmentally friendly than straws made from plastic’, says researcher Dr Thimo Groffen, an environmental scientist at the University of Antwerp. involved in the study.
However, the presence of PFAS in these straws means that this is not necessarily true.
“Small amounts of PFAS, while not harmful in themselves, can add to the chemical burden already in the body.”
The findings are published in the journal Food Additives and Contaminants.