001: Fragrances & Calling Bull on ‘Everyday Toxins’: Exposing PFAS & Phthalates in Our Lives

In this episode, Kristina Braly discusses the pervasive presence of PFAS and phthalates in everyday products, their health implications, and the lack of regulation surrounding these chemicals. She shares her personal journey of awareness and the steps she has taken to create a toxin-free brand. The conversation emphasizes the importance of consumer awareness and advocacy in driving change in the industry.

More on phthalates: https://aembr.co/blogs/clean/the-hidden-dangers-understanding-the-harmful-effects-of-phthalates-and-parabens-in-home-scents

Non-toxic stain-resistant coating: https://amzn.to/3EVU2gS

Key Takeaways

• PFAS are known as forever chemicals due to their persistence in the environment.
• Phthalates are often hidden in fragrances and plastics, affecting health.
• Consumer advocacy is crucial for pushing companies towards transparency.
• Health risks associated with PFAS include immune system impairment and cancer.
• Phthalates can disrupt hormones and affect reproductive health.
• Regulations on these chemicals are minimal in the US compared to the EU.
• Awareness of these toxins can lead to better consumer choices.
• Small incremental changes can significantly reduce exposure to harmful chemicals.
• Major retailers are beginning to phase out harmful substances from their products.
• Knowledge about these chemicals empowers consumers to make informed decisions.

REFERENCES

• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) – PFAS

  • EPA PFAS Website
  • Comprehensive overview of PFAS, proposed regulations, and health advisories.

• Food and Drug Administration (FDA) – Phthalates

  • FDA Phthalates Q&A
  • Explains which phthalates are used in cosmetics, safety reviews, and regulations.

• Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) – PFAS

  • ATSDR PFAS Toxicological Profile
  • Toxicity data, health effects, and exposure pathways for PFAS.

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Phthalates Factsheet

  • CDC Factsheet on Phthalates
  • Summaries of biomonitoring studies and health impact research.

• Grandjean, P., & Clapp, R. (2021).

  • Changing interpretation of human health risks from perfluorinated compounds. Public Health Reports.
  • Highlights evolving science on PFAS toxicity and lower safety thresholds.

• Schaider, L.A., et al. (2021).

  • Fluorinated compounds in U.S. cosmetics. Environmental Science & Technology Letters, 8(7).
  • Study revealing PFAS in a majority of sampled cosmetics, prompting consumer concern.

• Zota, A.R., & Shamasunder, B. (2017).

  • The environmental injustice of beauty: Fragrance, talc, and chemical exposures. American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology.
  • Discusses disproportionate phthalate exposure among women of color via beauty products.

• Bach, C. C., et al. (2016).

  • Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances and human health: Epidemiological evidence for association. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.
  • Reviews epidemiological data on PFAS link to fertility, metabolic disorders, and cancer risk.

• Trasande, L., et al. (2021).

  • Phthalates and attributable mortality: A population-based longitudinal study. Environmental Pollution, 283.
  • Estimated thousands of premature deaths linked to phthalate exposure in U.S. adults.

• Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) – Phthalates in Toys

  • CPSC Guidance
  • Bans and limits for various phthalates in children’s products.