Recent discussions around ecological paper straws position them as a practical substitute for plastic options, maintaining function while offering easier recycling. Yet a public scientific study from Europe raises warnings: these paper tubes may carry PFAS, often called eternal chemicals due to their persistence in the environment. The concern points to the waterproof coating used on these straws as the likely source of the substances.
In what is described as a first of its kind in Europe, with a global counterpart, Belgian researchers examined 39 straw brands to detect synthetic fluorinated compounds known as PFAS, including poly and perfluorinated substances.
Following testing, PFAS appeared in most samples, with higher prevalence in paper and bamboo versions, according to findings published in Food Additives and Contaminants.
PFAS, a family of chemicals used in a wide range of products from waterproof clothing to nonstick cookware and canned foods, pose potential risks to people, wildlife, and ecosystems. They break down very slowly and can linger for thousands of years, earning their nickname as infinite chemicals.
Health associations link PFAS exposure to several issues, including reduced vaccine responses, lower birth weight, thyroid problems, higher cholesterol, liver and kidney concerns, and certain cancers.
Environmental scientist Thimo Goffen of the University of Antwerp notes that plant based straws marketed as more sustainable may still hide PFAS. He emphasizes that the mere fact of PFAS presence challenges assumptions about the environmental friendliness of paper and bamboo alternatives.
Many countries, including the UK and Belgium, have restricted single use plastics, turning to plant based options as substitutes. A recent study also found PFAS in plant based straws sold in the United States. To explore this further, the team bought 39 brands across five materials namely paper, bamboo, glass, stainless steel and plastic.
Staws obtained from grocery stores and quick service outlets underwent two rounds of PFAS testing. In total, 27 of 39 brands contained PFAS, with 18 distinct PFAS identified.
Paper straws show the highest PFAS presence
Paper straws emerged as the most likely to harbor PFAS, detected in 18 of 20 brands tested. PFAS appeared in 4 of 5 bamboo brands, 3 of 4 plastic straws, and 2 of 5 glass straws. Stainless steel versions showed no PFAS in this analysis.
Perfluorooctanoic acid, a common PFAS, has faced global restrictions since 2020. Ultra short chain PFAS like trifluoroacetic acid and trifluoromethanesulfonic acid, which dissolve easily in water, were also found and could migrate into beverages.
PFAS levels were generally low, and given that people often use straws infrequently, the immediate health risk is limited. Still, PFAS can remain in the body for years and accumulate with continued exposure. A researcher notes that small amounts can add to the chemical load already present in the body.
Coatings and sources of PFAS
Researchers remain unsure whether PFAS are added to straws to create a water-repellent coating or if contamination arises from growing soils or production waters. The prevalence of PFAS across brands suggests that coatings may be a contributing factor in some cases.
It is still unclear whether PFAS can migrate from straws into liquids. The lead author concludes that the presence of PFAS in paper and bamboo straws means they are not necessarily biodegradable. Stainless steel straws showed no PFAS, and the study recommends choosing metal options or avoiding straws altogether.
Reference work: marked attribution noted but not linked within the article.
One notable takeaway is the call for ongoing monitoring and more rigorous testing of plant-based materials used in consumer products, to ensure safety while balancing environmental goals.