Confused about PFAS... What do we ask for??

[Paoputrees]

So I've heard PTFE and PFOA thrown around as the big no-nos. But sometimes I see PFC, PFOS and also "PFAS" which I guess is the umbrella term for all of these substances if thats correct..?

So which one do we actually ask manufacturers about when it comes to our bird's safety? Do we just ask for PFAS to cover all those bases? Or is PTFE and PFOA the only ones to be really concerned about?

Thanks for the help clearing up this confusion!

 

[NightOwls]

I use all the terms when asking.

 

[Momof3litt]

PFAS is short for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, which is the chemical grouping that includes both PTFE (perfluorooctanesulfonic acid) and PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid). There are thousands of different chemicals in the PFAS family, but PTFE and PFOA are probably the best-known.

You could ask is a product contains any PFAS substances and also ask specifically if it contains PTFE or PFOA, that would cover all the bases.

 

[erynez888]

Yep, PFAS is the broader category, kind of a catch-all for thousands of related chemicals, including PTFE and PFOA. I usually ask about PFAS in general and mention PTFE and PFOA specifically, just to make sure nothing slips through. Some companies will only answer the exact thing you ask about.

Also, if you're curious about why these are such a big deal health-wise, this breakdown of PFAS side effects is pretty eye-opening. Helpful to have context when pushing companies for clearer answers.