Hidden PFAS in toilet paper linked to cancer risk: 6 types to be aware of
For most of us, toilet paper is not even a blip on the radar screen. It’s the ultimate “invisible” essential, until, of course, it runs out. So, learning that the rolls in your bathroom might have ties to some not-so-great chemicals, well, that’s a bit of a curveball.
But there’s a scientific reason why researchers are looking into this. It seems that some toilet paper out there has PFAS, or what’s sometimes called “forever chemicals,” which means they just don’t go away. That’s not to say that the rolls in your bathroom right now are a
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risk or anything, but rather that an unremarkable aspect of our lives has become part of a bigger, more complex story.
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The point of all of this, however, isn’t to try and freak everyone out, but rather to consider the facts, determine what, if anything, we should be worried about, and what we should do about it.
How toilet paper joined the PFAS conversation
This is not the result of a social movement; it is the result of a lab. Scientists studied wastewater samples and realized something unusual. Certain types of PFAS were showing up in the sewage. As they back-tracked to determine the origin, toilet paper came into the picture.
A study conducted in 2023 by the University of Florida analyzed rolls from North America, Europe, and Africa. The researchers detected measurable levels of fluorinated compounds in the rolls. The concern, however, was not the presence of these chemicals but the method by which they were being “disposed of.”
While a jacket or a pan might be used and then stored, toilet paper is used and then immediately disposed of. It goes right into the water system, which was not designed to filter out these kinds of molecules. Eventually, millions of households’ worth of toilet paper can make up a large portion of the PFAS in the sewage sludge.
The interesting thing is, these chemicals are not always intentionally added. Sometimes, they are inadvertently added during the manufacturing process, recycled paper pulp, or even machine lubricants in the factory.
Now, let’s get a little more specific. PFAS is a huge category of chemicals, with thousands of different varieties. While some, like PFOA, are associated with serious health problems, such as increased risk of cancer or suppressed immune systems, this risk level is completely dependent on how you are exposed.
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The biggest risk with toilet paper, however, is not your skin at all. Most health experts, including those at the EWG, observe that skin absorption of PFAS is very, very low. The big culprits in human exposure are contaminated drinking water and food packaging.
Therefore, while these chemicals are noted in the product, the risk level as a result of using the product is low. The problem lies in the environmental build-up. Since these PFAS do not degrade, they accumulate in our soil and water forever.
The bigger picture: Life after the flush
But the real story begins when you push the handle. When the PFAS is introduced into the wastewater treatment, it is frequently included in “biosolids” (treated sewage sludge). It is frequently used as fertilizer for industrial farms.
This is the cycle: the chemicals go from the paper to the water, to the soil, and even into the food we might one day be eating. It is the environmental impact in slow motion, showing the effect our daily choices can have on our footprint.
Recycled vs. Bamboo: Are “eco” options safer?
If we try to do the right thing for the planet, we assume that using recycled or bamboo paper, as opposed to traditional wood pulp, is a get out of jail free card, so to speak, in terms of trees and carbon footprints. But in terms of chemical purity, there are a number of issues, some of which are a little ironic.
The Recycled Paper Paradox: While recycled toilet paper can be a fantastic option for the circular economy, it can be a “magnet” for unwanted chemicals. Consider what we put in the recycling bin. Glossy magazines, shipping labels, and thermal cash register receipts can all make their way into the recycling bin. These items can have BPA or PFAS to make them water-resistant or printable. If we mash them up into pulp, we can end up with unwanted microscopic chemicals in the finished product. Unless a company has extremely stringent filtration, your “eco-friendly” option could have more of these chemicals in it than virgin wood pulp.
The Bamboo Factor: While bamboo itself is considered a miracle crop because of its incredible growth rate and low water requirements, once the bamboo is cut, it must then be processed into soft, white paper. The safety of the finished product, however, rests entirely in the idea of a “closed-loop” factory. If the company uses harsh chemical solvents or even elemental chlorine to leach the difficult bamboo fibers, then we’re right back to square one. To get the full benefits of bamboo, we must find companies that emphasize mechanical processing over chemical-based techniques.
How to shop smarter: Products to watch
But when it comes time to fill the bathroom, things get a little fuzzy. While the peer-reviewed studies cited in this conversation so far haven’t mentioned any specific brands, further independent tests have tried to fill in those blanks.
It is, of course, absolutely essential to take these results with a grain of salt, as most of these tests are merely a series of spot checks, not exhaustive tests of a wide variety of brands. Take, for instance, a 2023 report conducted by Mamavation, in partnership with Environmental
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News, where 17 different products were sent to an EPA-certified lab to test for total fluorine, a chemical which is a common indicator of PFAS.
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The levels found were generally low, in the range of 10 to 35 parts per million, which Environmental Health News indicates is a level at which these chemicals are “unlikely to be added on purpose, but are instead accidental contaminants from the manufacturing process.”
The “caution list” from limited testing
Within that particular screen of 17 brands, four of these products were shown to have detectable levels of fluorine. This doesn’t mean all rolls of these brands have fluorine in them; however, it is a reminder of how contamination can seep in.
Charmin Ultra Soft: As a major conventional brand, it is placed in this category based on those initial screening tests.
Seventh Generation 100% Recycled: Even green-rated brands are not spared. The company notes that because they use recycled paper, there’s a chance that any impurities in the original source material (such as old inks or coatings) may be found in their final product, too.
Tushy & Who Gives a Crap (Bamboo): Both brands were found in the limited fluorine screening tests. Who Gives a Crap has taken this situation in stride, noting on their site under their Transparency section: “Through our regular testing, we have found some trace amounts of organic fluorine… we won’t stop there! We are sooo committed to investigating where this contamination is coming from.”
These disclosures don’t settle the question, but they do confirm that concerns about contamination are a very real problem for manufacturers, not a purely hypothetical one.
Two categories to approach with extra care
Aside from the names themselves, you can generally protect yourself by being aware of two general categories of chemicals that often cause problems in safety standards such as the 2025 Green Seal GS-1 Standard:
The “Extra” Rolls: This category includes anything heavily scented or treated with lotions. These additives are not really necessary and can include hidden chemicals. The Green Seal standard even bans these kinds of additives in sanitary paper to avoid these risks.
The “Vague” Brands: If a company does not discuss their recycling contamination control or their whitening process, then it might be time to go elsewhere. Transparency is the only guarantee of safety.
What’s the safe bet?
If you want to play it safe, the strongest advice you can follow is this: look for the most basic products available. The current gold standard is trending towards Totally Chlorine Free (TCF) processes. This is a big deal, as the World Health Organization (WHO) has pointed out that previous chlorine bleaching processes have resulted in the creation of Dioxins – a type of toxic by-product.
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The moral of this story is this: take a look at those with clear labels and a fragrance-free guarantee, and those with vague promises and luxury add-ons, and think of those as less safe options. It’s not about being perfect, it’s about choosing a brand that is working hardest to be perfect.
Conclusion
Toilet paper is not exactly something we ever thought we’d have to go around “auditing” in terms of safety, and learning that this is another contributing factor to this worldwide problem of PFAS chemicals in our environment is just another thing to add to the list of worries, right? However, let’s keep in mind that this is just a small piece of a gigantic worldwide puzzle, and this is not the entire picture.
The most balanced advice, in this case, would be: Don’t panic, but stay informed. You are not going to change the worldwide chemical situation by changing your type of toilet paper, but you can help change your personal household’s contribution to this situation. Going with simpler, less processed products is a classic example of a “low effort, high reward” situation. It’s a small change, but if millions of people are making this change, then this will start to change the market.
But until that time, a little bit of information and awareness is a big help in keeping your house and the world a little cleaner.
The Untapped Bounty: Unlocking the Nutritional Riches of Acorns
In the tapestry of autumn’s bounty, amidst the vibrant hues of falling leaves, lies a humble, often overlooked treasure: the acorn. This modest nut, the fruit of the majestic oak tree, has nourished a wide array of creatures and cultures throughout history. Yet, in modern times, its value has been largely forgotten, overshadowed by more conventional food sources. This article aims to rediscover the acorn’s potential, not only as a sustainable food source but as a powerhouse of nutrition and health benefits. As we delve into the world of acorns, we uncover the secrets to transforming these nuts into a palatable delight, along with exploring the myriad benefits they offer. Embracing acorns in our diet is not merely a nod to our foraging ancestors but a step forward in our journey towards sustainable living and nutritional wellness.
The Nutritional and Health Benefits of Acorns
Acorns are more than just a survival food; they are a testament to nature’s abundance, offering a wealth of health benefits that deserve recognition. Here is a comprehensive list of the many virtues these nuts hold:
Rich Nutrient Profile: Acorns are a powerhouse of essential nutrients, including vitamins A and C, which are vital for immune function and skin health, respectively. They also offer a good dose of B vitamins, crucial for energy metabolism and brain health.
Mineral-Rich: These nuts are a source of important minerals such as potassium, which regulates blood pressure; calcium, essential for bone health; and magnesium, necessary for over 300 biochemical reactions in the body.
High in Fiber: With a high fiber content, acorns can aid in digestion, helping to prevent constipation and promoting a healthy gut. Fiber is also key for maintaining a healthy weight and lowering the risk of heart disease.
Antioxidant Properties: Acorns contain antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress and may reduce inflammation, lowering the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
Heart Health: The unsaturated fats in acorns can contribute to a healthy heart by lowering bad cholesterol levels and potentially reducing the risk of heart disease.
Gluten-Free Alternative: Acorn flour offers a gluten-free alternative for baking and cooking, making it an excellent option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Energy Boosting: Being energy-dense, acorns can provide a sustained release of energy, making them an excellent addition to an active lifestyle.
Sustainable Food Source: Foraging for acorns encourages a connection with nature and promotes a sustainable approach to food, reducing reliance on processed and imported goods.
Cultural and Historical Significance: Incorporating acorns into modern diets honors the traditions of many indigenous and ancient cultures for whom acorns were a staple food, fostering a deeper appreciation for our natural world and its history.
Versatile Culinary Uses: From flours to oils, acorns offer a versatile base for a variety of culinary creations, enabling the exploration of new flavors and textures in cooking and baking.
Economic Advantage: Foraging acorns can offer economic benefits, reducing grocery bills and fostering self-sufficiency.
Weight Management: The combination of fiber, healthy fats, and protein in acorns can help in feeling fuller longer, aiding in weight management efforts.
The benefits of acorns extend far beyond their nutritional value, encompassing environmental sustainability, economic savings, and a reconnection with nature’s rhythms. As we turn to the practical aspects of harvesting and preparing acorns, we embark on a journey not just to rediscover an ancient food source but to embrace a lifestyle that values the bounty nature provides. Stay tuned for the next segment, where we will explore how to unlock the edible potential of acorns, ensuring they can be enjoyed safely and deliciously.
Harvesting and Selecting Acorns
The first step in utilizing acorns is gathering them, a task best undertaken in the early autumn when they are ripe and plentiful. Look for acorns that are firm, without any holes or cracks, as these imperfections may indicate the presence of insects or rot. Green acorns are immature and should be left to ripen, while those that are brown and detach easily from their caps are ready for use. It’s a sustainable practice to gather from the ground, leaving enough acorns for wildlife and the regeneration of the oak forest.
Processing Acorns to Remove Tannins
Shelling: Begin by removing the acorns from their shells. This can be done manually or with the aid of a nutcracker. It’s a labor-intensive step but crucial for accessing the nut meat within.
Leaching Out the Tannins: The most critical step in making acorns edible is leaching out the tannins, which are compounds that give raw acorns their bitter taste and can be harmful in large quantities. There are two primary methods for leaching: cold and hot leaching.
Cold Leaching: This method involves soaking the shelled acorns in cold water. The water should be changed when it becomes discolored, approximately every 12 to 24 hours, until the water remains clear, indicating that the tannins have been removed. This process can take several days to a week, depending on the acorn variety.
Hot Leaching: Hot leaching is faster than cold leaching but requires more active management. Boil the acorns in water, and change the water when it turns dark, repeating this process until the water remains mostly clear. This method can remove the tannins in a matter of hours.
Drying: After leaching, the acorns need to be dried to prevent mold and prepare them for grinding. Spread the acorns on a baking sheet and dry them in an oven at a low temperature, in a dehydrator, or air-dry them in a sunny, well-ventilated area.
Making Acorn Flour
Once dried, the acorns can be ground into flour using a food processor, blender, or hand grinder. The resulting flour should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place or frozen for extended storage. Acorn flour can be used as a substitute for traditional flours in baking, offering a nutty flavor and nutritional boost to bread, pancakes, and other baked goods.
Incorporating acorns into our diets is a journey back to the roots of human sustenance, a nod to the wisdom of our ancestors who relied on the natural world for their dietary needs. This journey is not just about adding a new ingredient to our pantry but about embracing a deeper connection with nature, understanding the cycles of growth and renewal, and appreciating the abundance that surrounds us. As we integrate acorns into our meals, we partake in a tradition that spans centuries and cultures, celebrating the oak tree’s gift and its enduring significance to both the environment and our health. Let the humble acorn inspire you to explore, innovate, and appreciate the simple, yet profound, pleasures of foraging and feasting from the land.
