The conversation surrounding PFAS is often grim and alarming, but not all Forever Chemicals are created equal. The broad umbrella term of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances includes thousands of different compounds, some of which are more common – and more harmful – than others.
In this latest article in our PFAS FAQ series, we take a closer look at a common PFAS compound that has been missing from much of the recent discussion: PTFE. What separates this chemical from things like PFOA and PFOS? Is PTFE safe, or is it just another carcinogenic pollutant that has spread around the world? We address these questions and more – and offer solutions for keeping PFAS out of your home and body.
What does PTFE stand for?
PTFE stands for polytetrafluoroethylene, a synthetic fluoropolymer known for its slippery, non-reactive properties. It was first developed in the 1930s by Chemours, a spin-off from the American multinational chemical company DuPont, and quickly became one of the most widely used non-stick substances in the world.
Is PTFE Teflon?
Yes! Polytetrafluoroethylene is the scientific name for the polymer Chemours discovered, but the trademark and brand name associated with PTFE is Teflon. Any non-stick pans, coatings, or clothing made from Teflon can be a source of exposure to the forever chemical PTFE.
What is PTFE used for?
Teflon is best known as a non-stick coating on frying pans and other cookware. However, its hydrophobic, low-friction, and heat-resistant properties make it a popular choice for a wide range of industrial and manufacturing applications.
Other uses of PTFE include:
- Wire insulation, especially in aerospace and computer applications
- Bearings, gears, slide plates, seals, gaskets, and other components with sliding parts
- Care products for musical instruments
- Lubricants
- Bullet coatings
- Dental floss
- Waterproof textiles and clothing
- Clothes irons
Is PTFE toxic?
When used as intended, PTFE is considered safe. According to the FDA and other health regulatory agencies, PTFE-coated cookware is safe for everyday use. The key to ensuring safety is using PTFE products within the temperature range they are designed for—usually below 260°C (500°F).
PTFE dangers and health risks are typically associated with damaged products or non-typical use cases. When overheated, PTFE can start to break down and release fumes, which can cause flu-like symptoms known as “polymer fume fever” in humans and can be dangerous for pet birds.
PTFE vs PFOA: What’s the difference?
Keeping track of all the distinct, interconnected acronyms in the Forever Chemical discussion can be challenging, especially when they all have similar names and properties. Most chemicals under the PFAS umbrella are resistant to grease, heat, and water, take a very long time to break down, and have varying degrees of toxicity or associated health risks.
PFOA, or perfluorooctanoic acid, is a synthetic chemical that was once used in the production of Teflon and other fluoropolymers. While PFOA itself was not present in the final product, concerns arose around the environmental and health impacts of using PFOA surfactants. PFOA has been linked to a variety of health risks, including cancer, developmental issues in children, and liver toxicity.
Due to these concerns, manufacturers have phased out PFOA since 2013. Today, most non-stick cookware is made without PFOA. While both synthetic chemicals are classified as PFAS and share a number of properties, PTFE is broadly considered safe to use. PFOA, on the other hand, has been declared carcinogenic to humans by the World Health Organisation.
Is PTFE safer than PFOS?
Similar to PFOA, PFOS (perfluorooctanesulfonic acid) is another fluorinated chemical that has been linked to health concerns. Like PFOA, it was used in the production of various products, including some non-stick cookware coatings.
PFOS has been associated with many of the same health issues as PFOA, including potential links to cancer and environmental contamination. However, PFOS usage has been heavily restricted and phased out around the world. The use of PFOS and PFOA as surfactants in the production of PTFE has largely been discontinued, with companies opting for less toxic, less polluting compounds and lubricants. PTFE is therefore not only safer than PFOS, but is also safe from PFOS.
PTFE Free Cookware: Should you switch?
PTFE may be less toxic than other PFAS, but reducing your exposure to synthetic chemicals that accumulate in your body and environment can still be beneficial. With the ubiquity of PTFE in cookware and non-stick products, you could be forgiven for wondering, “Are all non stick pans Teflon?” Fortunately, there are alternatives. Concerns over the safety of non-stick coatings have led to a surge in the popularity of alternatives like ceramic-coated pans, marketed as PTFE and PFOA-free.
While PTFE-free cookware offers a non-toxic alternative, it is important to remember that PTFE itself is not harmful when used within the recommended temperature range. The decision to switch to PTFE-free cookware largely depends on personal preference. If you prefer to avoid any synthetic coatings altogether, ceramic, stainless steel, or cast iron pans are great options.
How can I minimise my PFAS exposure?
PTFE-free cookware is a good place to start, but your frying pans are just one source of PFAS exposure. Forever chemicals can come from several sources around your home, from paints and varnishes to stain-resistant coatings on your furniture.
One of the best lines of defence against PFAS is your drinking water. Forever chemicals are often transported through waterways, and they are often difficult to remove with municipal water treatment methods. A whole home water filter is one of the best options for keeping PFAS out of your drinking water.
These high-quality filters also strip away a wide variety of other impurities in your tap water, from chlorine and heavy metals to fluoride and pharmaceuticals. To find out more about protecting your home from waterborne PFAS, contact your local Complete Home Filtration technician by filling out our contact form below or calling 1300 693 458
