Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) are a large classification group of chemicals widely used in kitchen cookware, fire-fighting foams, adhesives, clothing apparel, and polymer coatings. PFAS, or “Forever Chemicals”, were first produced in the 1940’s, for non-stick coatings on cookware.
These substances are concerning because:
They do not break down in the environment. They can move through soil and contaminate drinking water. They build up (bioaccumulate) in fish, wildlife, and humans. PFAS are manmade chemicals that have been used in consumer products worldwide since the 1940s.
The EPA (United States Environmental Protection Agency) states that exposure to particular levels of certain PFAS may lead to:
- Adverse health outcomes include immune system effects and natural hormone interference. Research is ongoing to enhance understanding of any health impacts.
- In a lifetime, a person may be exposed to PFAS from various ways, including:
- Eating food packaged in materials that contain PFAS.
- Swallowing residue or dust from PFAS products, such as stain-resistant carpet or water-repellent clothing.
- Drinking water that has been contaminated with PFAS.
Some adults and children may have a higher risk of being exposed to PFAS:
- Industrial workers are more likely to be exposed to products through active contact.
- Pregnant and lactating women are more susceptible to being exposed due to the need to drink more water per pound of body weight.
- Children tend to drink more water, eat more food, and breathe more than adults, which can increase their exposure to PFAS
- Younger children who put items in their mouths are more likely to be exposed to PFAS in carpets, toys, and cleaning products.
Resources and Products
PFAS have historically been used in the cleaning and polish industry to give such qualities as wetting, leveling, and water/oil repellency to floor care products. Buckeye has never intentionally added PFAS to most of our products. We are working hard to remove PFAS from all our products, ensuring that they are safe and sustainable for our customers. We will continue to update our PFAS-free product listings as more information and research is conducted.
To stay proactive of the emerging EPA guidance and new state legislations for PFAS, Buckeye removed this material in early 2023 from the following products:
In our sustainability efforts, we have always prioritized safety for workers and the environment. We are committed to enhancing product performance and safety through specialized training programs and education. In continuation of this, Buckeye has also field tested and approved changes to the following products that do not contain intentionally added PFAS:
If you want to learn more about PFAS, check out our Research fact Sheet about PFAS, and visit the CDC or EPA Websites.