Denmark and France have already banned them. They increase the risk of cancer.

• The European Union is working to ban PFAS – harmful chemicals used in thousands of everyday products.
• Some exceptions are provided for essential industrial uses.
• Exceptions include semiconductors used in green technologies such as electric vehicles.

As reported by Reuters, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) do not break down in the environment, which raises serious concerns about their accumulation in ecosystems, drinking water and the human body. These compounds are used in thousands of products - from cosmetics, Teflon pans and food packaging to airplanes and wind turbines - due to their resistance to extreme temperatures and corrosion.

A growing body of research indicates a link between exposure to PFAS and serious health problems, including liver and kidney damage, lower birth weight and testicular cancer.

EU Environment Commissioner Jessika Roswall told Reuters in January that the EC would propose a ban on the use of PFAS in consumer products.

This is important not only for people and the environment, but also for the industry, which will know how to phase out these substances, she stressed.

Recall that Denmark and France have already introduced their own restrictions on PFAS. They have banned the use of this raw material in waterproof clothing and hygiene products. However, the European Commission's proposal will most likely not be ready before next year, because work is still underway to define the necessary exceptions.

Roswall listed potential exceptions as asthma inhalers and semiconductors used in green technologies, such as electric vehicles. "However, she noted that restrictions are also planned for these, e.g. regarding disposal methods," we read.

Denmark and France have banned them. They destroy the liver and kidneys

"Rynek Zdrowia" indicated where we can most often find PFAS. It listed, among others:

• foundations and powders,
• creams with UV filter,
• lipsticks, lip balms,
• antiperspirants, shaving foams,
• paper packaging for fast food,
• take-away packaging,
• greaseproof trays and baking paper,
• some PET bottles and food foils,
• pans and pots with Teflon (PTFE) coating,
• silicone kitchen accessories (cheaper, low quality),
• stain-resistant tablecloths, curtains and carpets,
• technical greases and synthetic oils,
• car parts resistant to temperature and chemicals,
• products for impregnating fabrics and shoes,
• some adhesives and mounting tapes.