Myth-Busting: Common Misconceptions About PFAS

PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, continue to make headlines for their persistence in the environment and potential health risks. But despite growing awareness, PFAS misinformation and confusion still cloud the conversation. Let’s clear the air by busting some of the most common PFAS myths.

What is PFAS?

PFAS are a large group of human-made chemicals used since the 1940s in a wide range of consumer and industrial products for their resistance to heat, water, oil and stains. Found in items like nonstick cookware, water-repellent clothing, food packaging and firefighting foams, PFAS are known as “forever chemicals” because they don’t break down easily. They accumulate in the environment and our bodies, even far from where they were used. Growing evidence links PFAS exposure to health risks, including hormone disruption, immune effects and certain cancers, driving public concern and increased regulation.

Myth 1: All PFAS are the same.

What People Are Saying: “PFAS are all toxic and behave the same way in the environment. There’s no point in studying them individually, they’re all the same.”

Why It’s Misleading: PFAS is a broad class of thousands of chemicals, each with its own structure, properties and uses. Some, like PFOA and PFOS, are known to accumulate in the body and environment, while others may move more quickly through water or soil. Many PFAS compounds have not been thoroughly studied, so their health effects and environmental impacts are still unknown. Treating all PFAS as identical can lead to confusion about which chemicals are most concerning and how they should be regulated.

Myth 2: PFAS are only a problem in drinking water

What People Are Saying: “I saw a social media post that said my mascara might have PFAS in it, I thought it was only water.”

Why It’s Misleading: While PFAS-contaminated drinking water is a major source of concern, PFAS are also present in soil, air, food, household dust and a wide range of consumer products like cosmetics, nonstick pans, stain-resistant carpets and food packaging. People can be exposed through eating, breathing, skin contact or using everyday products, not just through PFAS in drinking water systems. (However, it’s important to understand where you are exposed, how much you are exposed, and at what frequency.)

Pro Tip: Always check the source. If it’s not coming from a credible scientific organization or expert, take it with a grain of salt. Social media is great for awareness, but not always for accuracy.

Myth 3: Short-chain PFAS are safe alternatives

What People Are Saying: “These new PFAS don’t build up in your body, so they’re fine.”

Why It's Misleading: Some manufacturers have replaced long-chain PFAS with short-chain versions, which are less likely to build up in the body. However, some short-chain PFAS may still be highly persistent in the environment and can travel long distances in water. Their health impacts are not fully understood, and early research suggests they may still pose risks. “Safer” does not always mean “safe.”

Myth 4: PFAS are “forever chemicals”

What People Are Saying: “PFAS are called ‘forever chemicals’ because nothing can break them down.”

Why It’s Misleading: While PFAS are often called “forever chemicals” because they resist natural breakdown, they aren’t truly indestructible. Battelle has developed advanced destruction technologies that can break down even the most persistent PFAS, offering real solutions for remediation and a safer environment. Although many PFAS chemicals can persist for decades and form stable end products, innovations like Battelle’s are proving that “forever” doesn’t have to mean permanent.

Myth 5: All PFAS are regulated

What People Are Saying: “If PFAS were really dangerous, the government would regulate all of them.”

Why It’s Misleading: Most PFAS are not regulated, but not all are equally harmful. PFAS include thousands of different chemicals with varying properties and risks. Only a few, like PFOA and PFOS, are currently regulated due to stronger evidence of harm. Many PFAS are still used in products and manufacturing, and research is ongoing to better understand their impacts. Most regulations target those PFAS with the greatest known risks, not the entire class.

What Does One of Our Experts Have to Say About These PFAS Misconceptions?

“Don’t just make good decisions; Make informed decisions. The best way to make informed decisions is to rely on the experts and reputable sources.”

—Shalene Thomas, R.E.P, Sr. Emerging Contaminants Program Manager at Battelle

Many tend to forget that the presence of a hazard does not equal risk. A hazard only becomes a risk to human health or the environment when there is a complete exposure pathway to the hazard. Be informed not only of the potential hazards of PFAS but also understand if you are truly being exposed in a way that is harmful to your health.

The Bottom Line

PFAS are complex chemicals that have become part of daily life, often in ways we don’t realize. As research advances and regulations change, separating fact from fiction is essential. Understanding PFAS helps us make better choices for our public health, our families, and our environment. Staying informed is the best defense against myths about PFAS.

If you want to reduce your exposure to PFAS, learn more or explore the latest research, reliable resources are available. Visit the Battelle website for up-to-date information, expert insights and practical tips.