PFAS: The Hidden Chemicals in Everyday Products – and Why Grounded Goods Says No
PFAS is short for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances and is a class of synthetic chemicals that have quietly made their way into our homes, workplaces, and even our bodies. Known as "forever chemicals" because they don’t break down naturally, PFAS are raising global alarms for their environmental and health impacts.
At Grounded Goods, we believe that sustainability isn’t just about reusable products, it’s about removing harm at every level of the supply chain. That’s why our products are proudly PFAS-free.
Here’s what you need to know and why it matters.
What Are PFAS?
PFAS are a group of over 4,700 chemicals used to make products resistant to water, oil, heat and stains. They’ve been widely used since the 1950s in things like:
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Non-stick cookware
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Waterproof jackets
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Non-reusable food packaging
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Firefighting foams
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Some reusable plastics and kitchenware
Their strength lies in their chemical structure, especially the carbon-fluorine bond, which makes them incredibly durable and persistent. But that same durability is also their danger.
Once released, PFAS don’t go away. They build up in the environment, in wildlife, and in our bodies — potentially for decades.
Why Are PFAS Harmful?
Ongoing research links PFAS exposure to a growing list of serious health concerns, including organ damage, hormone disruption, thyroid disorders and other major medical issues.
A 2024 Guardian investigation revealed that remote lakes and wildlife refuges in the US now have some of the highest PFAS concentrations on record, largely due to runoff from firefighting foam used on nearby military bases.
PFAS in Everyday Products
PFAS aren’t just a problem in industrial settings. They’re found in:
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Non-reusable takeaway containers
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Some compostable food packaging
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Stain-resistant fabrics
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Some reusable cups and kitchen plastics that aren't made of high-quality materials
Many consumers turn to “eco” products, believing they’re making a safer choice, only to find that some of them still contain PFAS compounds under the guise of performance.
The Global Response
Governments around the world are starting to take action.
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The EU is proposing widespread bans on PFAS in consumer products.
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The UK government is under pressure to tighten regulation after high levels were found in drinking water in some areas.
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The US EPA has issued new guidelines for safe PFAS levels in tap water, and lawsuits against PFAS manufacturers are mounting.
Despite all this, regulation is still catching up.
What Grounded Goods Is Doing Differently
At Grounded Goods, we refuse to compromise on material safety.
Our reusable cups and containers, including the Uppercup and Activation Cup, are made from safe, food-grade polymers that are completely free from PFAS, BPA, and other toxic additives.
Why?
Because we don’t believe people should have to choose between sustainability and safety.
As a B Corp Certified, Australian-made business, we believe in doing things the right way, even if it’s harder. That means:
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Transparent material sourcing
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Local manufacturing with strict quality controls
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Products designed to be safe, circular, and scalable
We’re proud to offer reusables that protect people and planet.
How You Can Reduce PFAS Exposure
While regulation is still catching up, you can take steps to reduce your own exposure to PFAS:
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Choose PFAS-free products: Avoid non-stick, stain-resistant or waterproof items unless clearly labelled as PFAS-free.
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Check your reusables: Opt for transparent brands that disclose their materials and certifications.
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Filter your tap water: Use a carbon filter or reverse osmosis system to reduce PFAS levels in drinking water.
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Avoid unnecessary packaging: PFAS are often used in grease-resistant wrappers and boxes, reusable systems are safer and cleaner.
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Stay informed: Read labels and ask questions. If a brand can’t tell you what their product is made from, that’s a red flag.
Learn More and Take Action
Want to learn more about PFAS and what’s being done?
Here are a few great resources:
And if you're a business looking for safer, circular packaging solutions, talk to us.
Grounded Goods offers PFAS-free, Australian-made reuse systems that help you meet your sustainability goals without compromising health.
👉 Contact us
