New findings from researchers in Antwerp, Belgium, raise questions about the safety of eco‑friendly drink straws. The study, published in a peer‑reviewed journal, examined a wide range of straw brands sold across Europe to assess exposure to a family of manufactured chemicals known as PFAS, or perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances.
PFAS are a large group of synthetic compounds valued for their resistance to water and heat. They appear in many everyday products, including tableware, food packaging, clothing, cosmetic containers, and household cleaners. With roughly ten thousand distinct PFAS identified to date, these substances persist in the environment and can accumulate in soil and water over time. A growing body of research links PFAS exposure to potential health risks in humans.
The Antwerp study found that the majority of the tested straws contained some level of PFAS. The highest concentrations were detected in straws made from paper and bamboo. PFAS detection was also notable in plastic straws, while glass straws contained only small amounts. Steel straws were the most convincing in terms of safety, with no PFAS detected in the samples tested.
Despite perceptions that plant‑based straws offer a greener option, the researchers concluded that such materials may not automatically translate into lower environmental or health impacts when PFAS are involved. This invites a closer look at the full life cycle of alternative straws, including their production, use, and end‑of‑life management.
In response to these findings, environmental health experts stress the importance of selecting products with transparent safety data and considering filtration and waste practices that minimize chemical release. Consumers are encouraged to stay informed about the latest testing results and to support brands that publish independent assessments of their materials. Ongoing investigations continue to clarify which straw materials and coatings best balance sustainability with human health protection, particularly in regions with stringent consumer safety standards.
As researchers pursue safer, more sustainable solutions, they emphasize that innovation in this area must account for both human health and environmental integrity, ensuring that efforts to reduce plastic waste do not unintentionally introduce new risks.