Earlier this month, the UK government announced a strategy to tackle PFAS. Consumer attention to these “forever chemicals” is also increasing, with searches for “PFAS” exceeding 100,000 per month, an increase of 129% over the past three months.
Although these chemicals are found in many everyday products, it is the presence of PFAS in menstrual products that is of concern to many women.
Experts are now calling on industry to take action and seize opportunities to reduce the growing health threat.
Mark Hall, waste management expert at BusinessWaste.co.uk, explains:
“PFAS are persistent chemicals that can leach into soil, water, and air over time, even when properly disposed of and incinerated.”
What are PFAS and are they dangerous?
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are often referred to as “permanent chemicals” due to their persistent nature.
The chemical structure of PFAS makes them resistant to heat, water, and degradation, and they do not degrade naturally in the human body or in the natural environment.
They can accumulate over many years in the environment and in organisms. This can be harmful to human health, as PFAS accumulate in the blood, liver, and other organs over time.
Studies have shown that exposure to PFAS causes health problems such as:
PFAS are found in a wide range of sources, from gym wear to drinking water. Worryingly, research has found that both disposable and reusable sanitary products contain chemicals.
Presence of PFAS in sanitary products
PFAS chemicals have been found in both disposable and reusable routine products.
PFAS were present in 48% of the 46 disposable sanitary napkins, underwear liners, and incontinence pads tested.
When it comes to reusable options, we found evidence of intentionally added PFAS in nearly 30% of the 59 products tested, with period underwear and reusable pads having the highest percentages.
This is particularly concerning because sanitary products are used for long periods of time and come into direct contact with the skin and mucous membranes. That means it’s considered a higher risk than coming into contact with many other consumer products.
Consumers are increasingly concerned about PFAS in vintage products
A recent survey found that around half of UK adults have heard of PFAS, and 68% expressed concern when informed about the potential health or environmental risks.
Forty-four percent of women said all or most PFAS pose a significant risk to human health or the environment, compared with 38% of men.
Three-quarters of respondents supported stronger regulation, and 79% said they would choose PFAS-free products, even if they were more expensive.
What is required of industry?
transparency
Manufacturers and brands must clearly list the materials and chemicals used, including PFAS. Full disclosure allows consumers to make informed choices and builds trust.
Commitment to change
PFAS are typically added to vintage products to provide water, stain, and odor resistance. Manufacturers should look to test alternative materials that can deliver performance without compromising consumer safety. Alternative materials may be more expensive or less widely available and may require clear communication to the customer to gain consent.
test
Brands that believe in providing natural or “non-toxic” products must commit to independent self-testing of their products. This validates the claim and provides assurance to the customer.
Responding to regulatory changes
Currently, there are no specific regulations for PFAS in sanitary products. The industry could work with regulators to set limits, tests and certifications for brands. This helps protect consumers while driving innovation towards safer products.
Hall concluded: “Flushing of sanitary waste poses an even bigger problem as it can introduce PFAS into waterways and the wider environment.
“As a result, the real responsibility lies with manufacturers and industry to reduce or eliminate PFAS from products at the source.”
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