Today I threw away all my pans. No more! I can’t believe that it took me things long to do. There is a dark secret right under my nose and I had no idea. Apparently Teflon is not good for your health and I cook on it everyday.
I watched a very interesting documentary and I am sure there is a reason why it's not mainstream news.
“The Devil We Know" is a documentary film that delves into the shocking and unsettling story of a corporation called DuPont and its production of a chemical known as perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), or C8. Directed by Stephanie Soechtig and released in 2018, the film sheds light on the long-lasting impact of this chemical on the health of communities and exposes the corporate malfeasance that allowed it to persist.
The documentary begins by exploring the small town of Parkersburg, West Virginia, where DuPont had a major chemical plant. It reveals that for several decades, DuPont had been using PFOA in the production of Teflon, the non-stick coating widely used in cookware. However, the company had kept the harmful effects of PFOA hidden from the public and even its own employees.
Through interviews with former DuPont employees and residents of Parkersburg, "The Devil We Know" uncovers a disturbing truth. PFOA, also known as "the devil's chemical," had contaminated the local water supply, leading to severe health issues for those exposed to it. The film highlights the efforts of a group of citizens who filed a lawsuit against DuPont, seeking justice for the harm caused to their community.
As the documentary unfolds, it exposes DuPont's deliberate cover-up of the health risks associated with PFOA. The company had conducted internal studies that indicated the chemical's toxicity, including links to cancer and other serious illnesses, yet chose to keep this information concealed. The film also reveals how DuPont manipulated scientific studies and regulatory agencies to protect its interests and continue its profitable operations.
"The Devil We Know" highlights the courage and determination of the affected community in Parkersburg, as well as the persistence of investigative journalists and lawyers who fought to expose the truth. The film emphasizes the broader implications of this case, illustrating how corporate interests often take precedence over public health and environmental concerns.
“The Devil We Know" serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked corporate power and the need for greater transparency and accountability in the chemical industry. It raises important questions about the ethical responsibilities of corporations and the role of government in safeguarding public health and protecting communities from hazardous substances.
I understand that there probably isn’t much of the harmful chemical know as PFOA. Maybe, but the recommendation for the safe amount of PFOA is zero. So why take the chance.
There is PFOA/PFAS chemicals in a lot of products so limiting the things that I know contain these harmful chemicals makes sense.
Here is a list of other know products that contain the harmful chemicals.
Non-Stick Cookware: Besides Teflon, other non-stick cookware brands may also contain PFOA or related PFAS chemicals. However, it's worth noting that many manufacturers have phased out the use of PFOA in recent years.
Stain-Resistant Fabrics: Certain fabrics, such as stain-resistant upholstery, carpets, and clothing, have been treated with PFAS to repel liquids and stains.
Waterproofing and Outdoor Gear: Outdoor apparel, including raincoats, hiking boots, and camping gear, often use PFAS-based coatings to make them water-repellent.
Food Packaging: PFAS has been used in the production of food packaging materials, such as microwave popcorn bags, fast-food wrappers, and pizza boxes, to prevent oil and grease from seeping through.
Firefighting Foam: A type of fire-suppressing foam known as aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) contains PFAS chemicals. It has been used extensively in firefighting and at airports for extinguishing fuel fires.
Cosmetics and Personal Care Products: Some cosmetics, particularly waterproof makeup, lotions, and shampoos, may contain PFAS ingredients to enhance their water resistance and longevity.
Cleaning Products: Certain cleaning products, including stain removers, carpet cleaners, and fabric protectors, may contain PFAS chemicals.
The use of PFOA/PFAS in many of these products has raised concerns due to their potential environmental persistence and adverse health effects. However, regulations and consumer awareness have prompted some manufacturers to phase out or reduce the use of these chemicals in their products.
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