‘Forever chemicals’ found in Canadian fast food packaging, study shows

A new study shows the evidence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in some take-out containers used in fast food restaurants in Canada.

Harmful “forever chemicals” have been detected in some fast food packaging in Canada — for the first time — according to a new study.

The research published Tuesday in the Environmental Science & Technology Letter found evidence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in dozens of samples of take-out containers collected from fast food restaurants in Toronto.

Among the 42 samples collected in August 2020, there was evidence of the use of PFAS in about half of them and a further deep dive of eight products confirmed the presence of the toxic chemicals, said Miriam Diamond, a professor in the department of earth sciences and the school of environment at the University of Toronto.

The analysis suggested that paper bags and compostable options that are considered greener alternatives might be causing harm to the environment and people’s health.

“The highest concentrations (of PFAS) were in the moulded fiber bowls — those bowls where you might get a salad or burrito,” said Diamond, who co-authored the study.

For years, scientists have raised concerns about the use of PFAS, which are associated with a number of health hazards, in consumer products.

PFAS, known as “forever chemicals,” are a group of thousands of long-lasting, human-made chemicals that are used in textiles, cosmetics, furniture, paints, firefighting foams, food packaging and other commonly used consumer products.

They are used as repellants for dirt, water and grease, which is why they are found in waterproof clothing and personal care products.