The Rhode Island House has approved a bill banning polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from all food packaging. The measure was sponsored by State Rep Terri Cortvriend.
PFAS chemicals are generally used to prevent grease from leaking through food wrappers and the like. They are used in a variety of consumer products.
The FDA allows the use of the chemicals, however states are now taking action to protect their own domains as much as they can.
“While we don’t know everything we need to know about the full effects of PFAS on the environment or humans, there’s evidence linking them to cancer, hormone suppression, liver and thyroid problems. There’s growing concern among scientists about the effects of PFAS, enough so that the risks outweigh the benefits of having a grease-free paper wrapper on a cheeseburger. There are alternative food packaging options, and we should use those instead of subjecting Rhode Islanders to the risks of PFAS contaminating their food,” said Representative Cortvriend, who represents both Portsmouth and Middletown.
The measure is on its way to the State Senate where passage is expected. However it is unclear when the Senate will take up the measure.
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