PFOAs, the same chemical that is toxic in nonstick pans, have been found by University of Toronto scientists in the liners of junk food wrappers and microwave popcorn bags. The PFOAs from these food packages are migrating into food and being ingested by people, contributing to the toxic burden of their bodies.

PFOA is found in the bodies of humans all around the world.

Scientists who did the study suspect that a major source of human PFCA exposure may be the consumption and metabolism of polyfluoroalkyl phosphate esters or PAPs. PAPs are applied as greaseproofing agents to paper food contact packaging.

“In this study we clearly demonstrate that the current use of PAPs in food contact applications does result in human exposure to PFCAs, including PFOA. We cannot tell whether PAPs are the sole source of human PFOA exposure or even the most important, but we can say unequivocally that PAPs are a source and the evidence from this study suggests this could be significant.”

The use of PAPs in food contact applications is not currently regulated.

Another reason to prepare your meals and snacks from fresh, whole, organic foods.

University of Toronto: Dangerous chemicals in food wrappers likely migrating to humans