Chemicals are dangerous and can even reduce our response to vaccines, deter our growth, increase cholesterol levels and put us at risk of heart diseases and therefore can shorten our life span.
Forever chemicals are created by joining carbon and fluorine, it is the strongest bond in organic chemistry. The chemicals made by carbon and fluorine can never be broken by heat, sunlight or water. Forever chemicals make products that are heat, water as well as moisture resistant.
Some products that have the presence of harmful chemicals are as follows -
● Carpets that don’t catch wine stain
● Microwave popcorn bags
● Non-stick pots
● Food packaging
● Pizza boxes
● Water-resistant makeup
● Shampoo
● Dental floss
● Paints
● Rainproof coats
A class of manmade chemicals known as per and polyfluoroalkyl substances which makes products water, grease and stain resistant. These products are also toxic at extreme levels posing significant risks to our health. Therefore, these are called forever chemicals as they are nearly indestructible. Studies have shown that exposure to chemicals can cause hormone disruption, increase the risk of cancer, affect our immune system and can also increase birth defects. Forever chemicals have been found in breast milk. The level of chemicals averaged 46ppt higher than the safety limits. This is exposed in utero during pregnancy.
SODIUM HYDROXIDE is an inorganic compound that is widely used in manufacturing paper, soaps, detergents, textiles, drinking water and drain cleaner. Sodium hydroxide is a highly corrosive base and an alkali that can cause severe chemical burns. It can also result in blindness if it comes into contact with one’s eyes. Therefore, protective equipment and safety clothing must be worn while handling this chemical.
PARABENS are preservatives that are commonly used in pharmaceutical and cosmetic products. Parabens are often found in things like makeup, toothpaste, shaving gel, and moisturizers. Although research points to an extremely low risk of certain cancers. The presence of methylparaben in some products mixed with UVB rays from the sun can lead to faster skin ageing, DNA damage and skin cancer.
India has adopted benchmarks for forever chemicals by replacing the restricted fluoridated substances with other equally harmful forever chemicals.
How can you avoid forever chemicals?
● Stop buying chemicals with fluoro in their names.
● Replace the water-resistant makeup products with traditional makeup products.
● Replace non-stick pans with steel or ironware.
● Avoid usage of dental floss
● Don't buy water-resistant carpets or gloves
● Do Not heat food wrapped in grease-resistant packaging.
● Don't buy furniture, or bedding labelled as water-resistant or stain resistant.