By Faith Cullens
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances otherwise known as PFAS or “forever chemicals” are a large class of manmade chemicals that are commonly used for their water, oil and stain-resistant properties. These chemicals can be found in a wide range of products like firefighting foam, cosmetics, food packaging, non-stick cookware, carpeting, textiles and more.
PFAS are still in use today and don’t break down significantly in the environment, but they can move, particularly through the water cycle. Some PFAS can build up in our bodies, which can lead to health risks. Therefore, breathing, drinking or eating food contaminated with PFAS is a concern. Although more research is needed, some human health studies have shown that high exposures to certain PFAS may:
- Increase the chance of thyroid disease
- Increase cholesterol levels
- Change the body’s immune response
- Increase the chance of cancer, especially kidney and testicular cancers
- Lower a woman’s chance of getting pregnant
- Increase the chance of high blood pressure in pregnant women
How do PFAS get onto farmland?
PFAS have entered farmland through several different pathways including land application of materials containing high levels of PFAS, such as biosolids, paper sludge and tannery waste. Other pathways include irrigating with contaminated water and potentially though the application of pesticides, herbicides, septage and precipitation, although more research is needed to understand the extent of soil contamination resulting from these pathways. Since 2021, Michigan has implemented a PFAS interim strategy to limit the land application of biosolids with high levels of PFAS. Prior to 2021, some biosolids may have contained high levels of PFAS and have been applied to some farmland across the state.
Source : msu.edu