A recent study shows that exposing children to a chemical used in making such things as nonstick pans, microwave popcorn bags, and anti-stain fabric coatings puts them at a higher risk of developing more bad cholesterol. The research has cast a dark shadow on the use of such common items.
The Culprit: PFOA
The culprit chemical is the fluorine-based nonstick perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). The chemical, which DuPont Company developed over half a century ago, is the reason behind the slippery nature of the nonstick pans. However, researchers are now concerned that PFOA may have serious long-term side effects on people’s health.
According to a study whose findings were published in Archives of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, both teenagers and children whose blood serum contained PFOA had higher cholesterol and LDL levels than their counterparts who had not been exposed to the chemical. However, the study does not necessarily show that PFOA is the problem because it did not focus on cause and effect.
Nevertheless, if you are concerned about the risks of exposure to PFOA, there are some measures that you can take to prevent the problem. The Environmental Protection Agency initiated a program that was meant to lower PFOA use by 95% in 2010 and get rid of it entirely by 2017. However, the chemical can remain in the body or environment for a long time, binding onto blood and liver proteins. It is therefore important to take steps that will minimize contact with the chemical at home.
Use cast-iron or stainless steel pans instead
Cleaning these pans is relatively easy and you can make the process even easier by warming them up and applying a drizzle of oil first. This process, known as seasoning, gives cast iron the same non-stick properties as more expensive pans but has none the dangers associated with Teflon.
Use carpet or furniture that has no stain-repellent finishes
Avoid Stain-Master Carpets are similar products. Besides this, do not accept offers of applying stain repellent coatings to your home furnishings during purchase.
Use traditional methods to prepare popcorn
Instead of using microwaveable bags, use a pot and a stove. Crank-operated popcorn machines have popcorn ready in about the same time as a microwave. Air-poppers are also available. Also note, some carry-out bags for fast foods are coated with PFOAs to keep away grease.
Although using nonstick pans will make your cleaning easier, it may come at the expense of your family’s health.
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