What everyday products are raising your PFAS blood levels the most?

What's actually in it

PFAS are used across hundreds of product categories. But not all of them contribute equally to what ends up in your bloodstream. Knowing which sources drive the most exposure helps prioritize what to change.

What the research says

A 2026 study in Environmental Health analyzed diet and product use habits alongside PFAS blood levels in a large sample. The researchers identified the strongest predictors of elevated serum PFAS:

Nonstick cookware was one of the top predictors. People who regularly cooked with Teflon-coated pans had higher PFAS levels than those who used stainless steel or cast iron. Scratched and worn pans shed more PFAS than new ones.

Stain-resistant or water-resistant clothing was another strong predictor, consistent with research on dermal absorption of PFAS during wear and sweating.

Microwave popcorn and other foods in PFAS-treated bags also contributed significantly. The heat of microwave cooking drives PFAS from the bag into the food.

Drinking water from unfiltered municipal supplies was a consistent background contributor, especially in areas with known contamination. A reverse osmosis filter removes over 90% of PFAS from tap water.