Scientists from the University of Florida have found toxic substances in toilet paper. Results of the study published In the journal Environmental Science and Technology.
In their study, the scientists analyzed toilet paper from 21 major brands. As it turned out, per- and polyfluoroalkyl compounds (PFAS) appeared in all products. PFAS is a type of plastic used to make containers, plate covers, candy wrappers, paint brushes and more. They are very stable, which somehow makes them difficult to recycle.
Previous studies have revealed that these substances can be absorbed through the skin and pose a risk to human health. In particular, they can cause dysfunction of the reproductive organs.
According to the article authors, it is toilet paper that can be the main source of water pollution with PFAS that can reach agricultural areas.
The scientists stressed that the PFAS content in toilet paper is insignificant and should not be thrown away, but the study did not consider its potential harm.