Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as ‘forever chemicals’, are increasingly being used in US pesticides, posing a significant threat to human health. This alarming trend was highlighted in a recent study published in Environmental Health Perspectives. Although no reports have emerged in Malaysia, the global concern over “forever chemicals” is alarming due to the similarities in agricultural practices worldwide.

PFAS have been under scrutiny due to their persistence in the environment and potential adverse health effects. Traditionally, regulatory efforts have focused on industrial facilities, landfills, and consumer products like non-stick cookware and paints. However, new research reveals that these toxic substances are also present in pesticides used on essential crops such as corn, wheat, spinach, apples, and strawberries. Additionally, they are found in insect sprays and pet flea treatments.

An expert from the non-profit Environmental Working Group stated that the more they investigate, the more they find PFAS contaminating various sources. This discovery underscores the urgent need to reduce these sources and implement stricter regulations.

Exposure to high levels of PFAS can compromise the human immune system, making it less responsive to vaccines and increasing susceptibility to infections. Emerging evidence suggests PFAS may also reduce fertility, cause growth delays in children, and disrupt natural hormones.

The study’s authors conducted thorough investigations using public databases and freedom of information requests to identify both active and inert ingredients in pesticides. Active ingredients target pests, while inert ingredients, which are not required to be disclosed on labels, can enhance the efficacy and persistence of the active ingredients and may be toxic themselves.

The findings were concerning: 14% of all US pesticide active ingredients are PFAS, including nearly one-third of those approved in the past decade. Additionally, eight approved inert ingredients in pesticides were identified as PFAS, including a non-stick chemical marketed under the brand name Teflon.

Notably, the company that produced Teflon non-stick pans ceased using this chemical in 2013. Research linked its elimination to a reduction in low birth weight babies. In February, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced plans to ban Teflon’s use in pesticides.

A scientist at the Environmental Working Group pointed out that part of the problem lies in the EPA’s narrower definition of PFAS molecules compared to that adopted by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). Adding PFAS to pesticides enhances their power and longevity, which could be driving their continued use.

‘Forever chemicals’ were first developed in the 1940s and have since accumulated in the environment worldwide, contaminating air, soil, groundwater, lakes, and rivers. Over 15,000 synthetic chemicals qualify as PFAS due to their strong carbon-fluorine bonds, which render them nearly indestructible.

Another critical issue identified by the study is the use of fluorinated plastic containers for storing pesticides and fertilisers. These containers, which make up 20-30% of such storage solutions, can leach PFAS back into their contents. During testing, unintentional addition of extra PFAS was found in pesticides. Although the EPA moved to ban fluoridation of these containers, its decision was overturned by a US court.

An environmental health science director at the Center for Biological Diversity expressed grave concerns over these findings, highlighting that pesticides are among the most widely dispersed pollutants globally. The inclusion of ‘forever chemicals’ in pesticides could burden future generations with more chronic diseases and challenging cleanup responsibilities.

The authors of the study recommended several measures to address this issue:

1. Ban on Fluorinated Plastic Containers: Prohibit the use of fluorinated plastic containers for storing pesticides and fertilisers.

2. Mandate Disclosure of Inert Ingredients: Require manufacturers to disclose all inert ingredients on product labels.

3. Comprehensive Environmental Studies: Conduct thorough studies on what happens to pesticide compounds in the environment.

4. Research on Human Health Effects: Increase research on the effects of these chemicals on human health.

Scientists at Emory University emphasised that current regulations surrounding pesticides are outdated and inadequate. They called on the EPA to take a more proactive approach to understanding and addressing this rising threat.

The revelation that ‘forever chemicals’ are being used in pesticides highlights a critical gap in regulatory oversight. As these toxic substances continue to infiltrate our environment and food supply, the need for stringent regulations and comprehensive research becomes increasingly urgent.

Reducing exposure to PFAS requires coordinated efforts from regulatory agencies, researchers, and industry stakeholders. By implementing stricter regulations and increasing transparency around pesticide ingredients, we can mitigate the risks posed by these persistent chemicals and protect public health for future generations.

The battle against ‘forever chemicals’ is far from over. With continued vigilance and proactive measures, there is hope for a safer, healthier future free from these insidious pollutants.