PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances)

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a large group of synthetic chemicals characterized by strong carbon–fluorine bonds that make them resistant to heat, water, and oil, widely used since the 1940s in products such as non-stick cookware, firefighting foams, textiles, and food packaging; they are often called “forever chemicals” because they do not break down easily, can accumulate in people and the environment, and have been linked to health risks including cancer, liver and kidney damage, immune system effects, and developmental issues.