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What does PFOA mean?

Updated: 9/24/2023
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What is the link between PFOA and Teflon?

Non-stick coatings can contain residues of PFOA (perfluorooctanoate), a chemical used to make Teflon and a breakdown product of stain- and grease-proof coatings on carpet, clothing and food packaging. PFOA is found in the bodies of nearly all Americans. It is a likely human carcinogen; it also has a variety of metabolic developmental, reproductive, endocrine, and neurobiological health effects. Many manufacturers of non-stick cookware have committed to eliminating PFOA residues from non-stick coatings. Available data suggest that non-stick pans are not a major source of PFOA in people's bodies. These exposures are more likely to come from stain- and grease-proof coatings on furniture, clothing, and food packaging. Studies also show that most of the potential health risks from non-stick pans, such as polymer fume fever, come not from PFOA but from other particles and fumes that can come off the pan when it is overheated. While EWG continues to track the changes in manufacturing practices for non-stick cookware, we highly recommend stainless steel and cast iron as great alternatives to non-stick cooking surface.


Are there any harmful effects of teflon?

Yes, there are harmful effects of teflon. At high temperatures, cookware coated with Teflon and other non-stick surfaces can break apart and emit toxic particles and gases. The fumes can make people sick, while pet birds are even more sensitive. In cases of "Teflon toxicosis," as the bird poisonings are called, the lungs of exposed birds hemorrhage and fill with blood, leading to suffocation. DuPont studies show that the fumes can also sicken people, a condition called "polymer fume fever." The government has not assessed human health risks or the incidence of polymer fume fever from kitchen exposures to these particles and gases when pans are overheated. Non-stick coatings can contain residues of PFOA (perfluorooctanoate), a chemical used to make Teflon and a breakdown product of stain- and grease-proof coatings on carpet, clothing and food packaging. PFOA is found in the bodies of nearly all Americans. It is a likely human carcinogen; it also has a variety of metabolic developmental, reproductive, endocrine, and neurobiological health effects. Many manufacturers of non-stick cookware have committed to eliminating PFOA residues from non-stick coatings. Available data suggest that non-stick pans are not a major source of PFOA in people's bodies. Studies also show that most of the potential health risks from non-stick pans, such as polymer fume fever, come not from PFOA but from other particles and fumes that can come off the pan when it is overheated.


Is teflon poisenious?

To a certain extent, yes, Teflon is poisonous. At high temperatures cookware coated with Teflon and other non-stick surfaces can break apart and emits toxic particles and gases. The fumes can sick people, but pet birds are even more sensitive. In cases of "Teflon Toxicosis," as the bird poisonings are called, the lungs of exposed birds hemorrhage and fill with blood, leading to suffocation. DuPont studies show that the fumes can also sicken people, a condition called "polymer fume fever." The government has not assessed human health risks or the incidence of polymer fume fever from kitchen exposures to these particles and gases when pans are overheated. Non-stick coatings can contain residues of PFOA (Perfluorooctanoic acid), a chemical used to make Teflon and a breakdown product of stain- and grease-proof coatings on carpet, clothing and food packaging. PFOA is found in the bodies of nearly all Americans. It is a likely human carcinogen; it also has a variety of metabolic developmental, reproductive, endocrine, and neurobiological health effects. Many manufacturers of non-stick cookware have committed to eliminating PFOA residues from non-stick coatings. Available data suggest that non-stick pans are not a major source of PFOA in people's bodies. These exposures are more likely to come from stain- and grease-proof coatings on furniture, clothing, and food packaging. Studies also show that most of the potential health risks from non-stick pans, such as polymer fume fever, come not from PFOA but from other particles and fumes that can come off the pan when it is overheated. For those concerned about Teflon coated products, stainless steel and cast iron are common alternatives to non-stick cooking surface.


Does Teflon give cancer?

While we have not linked Teflon to cancer, Teflon has certainly harmful effects on health. At high temperatures cookware coated with Teflon and other non-stick surfaces can break apart and emits toxic particles and gases. The fumes can sick people, but pet birds are even more sensitive. In cases of "Teflon toxicosis," as the bird poisonings are called, the lungs of exposed birds hemorrhage and fill with blood, leading to suffocation. DuPont studies show that the fumes can also sicken people, a condition called "polymer fume fever." The government has not assessed human health risks or the incidence of polymer fume fever from kitchen exposures to these particles and gases when pans are overheated. Non-stick coatings can contain residues of PFOA (perfluorooctanoate), a chemical used to make Teflon and a breakdown product of stain- and grease-proof coatings on carpet, clothing and food packaging. PFOA is found in the bodies of nearly all Americans. It is a likely human carcinogen; it also has a variety of metabolic developmental, reproductive, endocrine, and neurobiological health effects. Many manufacturers of non-stick cookware have committed to eliminating PFOA residues from non-stick coatings. Available data suggest that non-stick pans are not a major source of PFOA in people's bodies. These exposures are more likely to come from stain- and grease-proof coatings on furniture, clothing, and food packaging. Studies also show that most of the potential health risks from non-stick pans, such as polymer fume fever, come not from PFOA but from other particles and fumes that can come off the pan when it is overheated. While EWG continues to track the changes in manufacturing practices for non-stick cookware, we highly recommend stainless steel and cast iron as great alternatives to non-stick cooking surface.


Does teflon decompose?

Yes, there are risks of decomposition with Teflon. Furthermore, there are other risks linked to the use of Teflon. At high temperatures cookware coated with Teflon and other non-stick surfaces can break apart and emits toxic particles and gases. The fumes can sick people, but pet birds are even more sensitive. In cases of "Teflon toxicosis," as the bird poisonings are called, the lungs of exposed birds hemorrhage and fill with blood, leading to suffocation. DuPont studies show that the fumes can also sicken people, a condition called "polymer fume fever." The government has not assessed human health risks or the incidence of polymer fume fever from kitchen exposures to these particles and gases when pans are overheated. Non-stick coatings can contain residues of PFOA (perfluorooctanoate), a chemical used to make Teflon and a breakdown product of stain- and grease-proof coatings on carpet, clothing and food packaging. PFOA is found in the bodies of nearly all Americans. It is a likely human carcinogen; it also has a variety of metabolic developmental, reproductive, endocrine, and neurobiological health effects. Many manufacturers of non-stick cookware have committed to eliminating PFOA residues from non-stick coatings. Available data suggest that non-stick pans are not a major source of PFOA in people's bodies. These exposures are more likely to come from stain- and grease-proof coatings on furniture, clothing, and food packaging. Studies also show that most of the potential health risks from non-stick pans, such as polymer fume fever, come not from PFOA but from other particles and fumes that can come off the pan when it is overheated. While EWG continues to track the changes in manufacturing practices for non-stick cookware, we highly recommend stainless steel and cast iron as great alternatives to non-stick cooking surface. Source: http://www.ewg.org/EWGFAQ#

Related questions

What is the link between PFOA and Teflon?

Non-stick coatings can contain residues of PFOA (perfluorooctanoate), a chemical used to make Teflon and a breakdown product of stain- and grease-proof coatings on carpet, clothing and food packaging. PFOA is found in the bodies of nearly all Americans. It is a likely human carcinogen; it also has a variety of metabolic developmental, reproductive, endocrine, and neurobiological health effects. Many manufacturers of non-stick cookware have committed to eliminating PFOA residues from non-stick coatings. Available data suggest that non-stick pans are not a major source of PFOA in people's bodies. These exposures are more likely to come from stain- and grease-proof coatings on furniture, clothing, and food packaging. Studies also show that most of the potential health risks from non-stick pans, such as polymer fume fever, come not from PFOA but from other particles and fumes that can come off the pan when it is overheated. While EWG continues to track the changes in manufacturing practices for non-stick cookware, we highly recommend stainless steel and cast iron as great alternatives to non-stick cooking surface.


Is popcorn from the movies ok to eat when your pregnant?

I was looking for this answer and it seems it's okay to eat, but doesn't really provide much of what your body needs during pregnancy. Most nutrients are lost during popping. Nuts would be a better snack in my opinion


What is the clear plastic coating on ski tops?

I believe it is perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), the same stuff used to make Teflon coatings, and inside coating of food packagings. It is a carcinogen. 96% of US children now has this non-biodegradable chemical in their blood. Even though the industry is supposed to phase out PFOA voluntarily, they are replacing it with similar chemicals that belong to or will breakdown into again perfluoro chemicals. Go figure! The Environmental Working Group has a detailed report on this, see related link.


What is the best nonstick cooking surface?

The best nonstick cookware is manufactured by Cuisinart. Their cookware is free of PTFE and PFOA and is safe to go in the oven. It has a water-based Ceramica surface that won't peel off.


Is there such a thing as a nonstick pan that doesn't use Teflon?

Teflon contains a synthetic chemical known as perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) that has been linked to cancer and birth defects in laboratory animals. And while the formal risk assessment taken by the E.P.A. is not complete, studies do suggest that PFOA is highly likely to be carcinogenic to humans. Dupont, the manufacturer of Teflon, has voluntarily pledged to phase out PFOA by 2015. If you are concerned about the risks of using Teflon-coated cookware, there are plenty of other nonstick options currently available. Look for pans labeled PFOA or PTFE-free: GreenPan and Scanpan are two popular brands on the market.


Are there any harmful effects of teflon?

Yes, there are harmful effects of teflon. At high temperatures, cookware coated with Teflon and other non-stick surfaces can break apart and emit toxic particles and gases. The fumes can make people sick, while pet birds are even more sensitive. In cases of "Teflon toxicosis," as the bird poisonings are called, the lungs of exposed birds hemorrhage and fill with blood, leading to suffocation. DuPont studies show that the fumes can also sicken people, a condition called "polymer fume fever." The government has not assessed human health risks or the incidence of polymer fume fever from kitchen exposures to these particles and gases when pans are overheated. Non-stick coatings can contain residues of PFOA (perfluorooctanoate), a chemical used to make Teflon and a breakdown product of stain- and grease-proof coatings on carpet, clothing and food packaging. PFOA is found in the bodies of nearly all Americans. It is a likely human carcinogen; it also has a variety of metabolic developmental, reproductive, endocrine, and neurobiological health effects. Many manufacturers of non-stick cookware have committed to eliminating PFOA residues from non-stick coatings. Available data suggest that non-stick pans are not a major source of PFOA in people's bodies. Studies also show that most of the potential health risks from non-stick pans, such as polymer fume fever, come not from PFOA but from other particles and fumes that can come off the pan when it is overheated.


Is teflon poisenious?

To a certain extent, yes, Teflon is poisonous. At high temperatures cookware coated with Teflon and other non-stick surfaces can break apart and emits toxic particles and gases. The fumes can sick people, but pet birds are even more sensitive. In cases of "Teflon Toxicosis," as the bird poisonings are called, the lungs of exposed birds hemorrhage and fill with blood, leading to suffocation. DuPont studies show that the fumes can also sicken people, a condition called "polymer fume fever." The government has not assessed human health risks or the incidence of polymer fume fever from kitchen exposures to these particles and gases when pans are overheated. Non-stick coatings can contain residues of PFOA (Perfluorooctanoic acid), a chemical used to make Teflon and a breakdown product of stain- and grease-proof coatings on carpet, clothing and food packaging. PFOA is found in the bodies of nearly all Americans. It is a likely human carcinogen; it also has a variety of metabolic developmental, reproductive, endocrine, and neurobiological health effects. Many manufacturers of non-stick cookware have committed to eliminating PFOA residues from non-stick coatings. Available data suggest that non-stick pans are not a major source of PFOA in people's bodies. These exposures are more likely to come from stain- and grease-proof coatings on furniture, clothing, and food packaging. Studies also show that most of the potential health risks from non-stick pans, such as polymer fume fever, come not from PFOA but from other particles and fumes that can come off the pan when it is overheated. For those concerned about Teflon coated products, stainless steel and cast iron are common alternatives to non-stick cooking surface.


What are the disvantages of teflon?

Teflon has great disadvantages in terms of health. At high temperatures cookware coated with Teflon and other non-stick surfaces can break apart and emits toxic particles and gases. The fumes can sick people, but pet birds are even more sensitive. In cases of "Teflon toxicosis," as the bird poisonings are called, the lungs of exposed birds hemorrhage and fill with blood, leading to suffocation. DuPont studies show that the fumes can also sicken people, a condition called "polymer fume fever." The government has not assessed human health risks or the incidence of polymer fume fever from kitchen exposures to these particles and gases when pans are overheated. Non-stick coatings can contain residues of PFOA (perfluorooctanoate), a chemical used to make Teflon and a breakdown product of stain- and grease-proof coatings on carpet, clothing and food packaging. PFOA is found in the bodies of nearly all Americans. It is a likely human carcinogen; it also has a variety of metabolic developmental, reproductive, endocrine, and neurobiological health effects. Many manufacturers of non-stick cookware have committed to eliminating PFOA residues from non-stick coatings. Available data suggest that non-stick pans are not a major source of PFOA in people's bodies. These exposures are more likely to come from stain- and grease-proof coatings on furniture, clothing, and food packaging. Studies also show that most of the potential health risks from non-stick pans, such as polymer fume fever, come not from PFOA but from other particles and fumes that can come off the pan when it is overheated. While EWG continues to track the changes in manufacturing practices for non-stick cookware, we highly recommend stainless steel and cast iron as great alternatives to non-stick cooking surface. Source: http://www.ewg.org/EWGFAQ#


Does Teflon give cancer?

While we have not linked Teflon to cancer, Teflon has certainly harmful effects on health. At high temperatures cookware coated with Teflon and other non-stick surfaces can break apart and emits toxic particles and gases. The fumes can sick people, but pet birds are even more sensitive. In cases of "Teflon toxicosis," as the bird poisonings are called, the lungs of exposed birds hemorrhage and fill with blood, leading to suffocation. DuPont studies show that the fumes can also sicken people, a condition called "polymer fume fever." The government has not assessed human health risks or the incidence of polymer fume fever from kitchen exposures to these particles and gases when pans are overheated. Non-stick coatings can contain residues of PFOA (perfluorooctanoate), a chemical used to make Teflon and a breakdown product of stain- and grease-proof coatings on carpet, clothing and food packaging. PFOA is found in the bodies of nearly all Americans. It is a likely human carcinogen; it also has a variety of metabolic developmental, reproductive, endocrine, and neurobiological health effects. Many manufacturers of non-stick cookware have committed to eliminating PFOA residues from non-stick coatings. Available data suggest that non-stick pans are not a major source of PFOA in people's bodies. These exposures are more likely to come from stain- and grease-proof coatings on furniture, clothing, and food packaging. Studies also show that most of the potential health risks from non-stick pans, such as polymer fume fever, come not from PFOA but from other particles and fumes that can come off the pan when it is overheated. While EWG continues to track the changes in manufacturing practices for non-stick cookware, we highly recommend stainless steel and cast iron as great alternatives to non-stick cooking surface.


Does teflon decompose?

Yes, there are risks of decomposition with Teflon. Furthermore, there are other risks linked to the use of Teflon. At high temperatures cookware coated with Teflon and other non-stick surfaces can break apart and emits toxic particles and gases. The fumes can sick people, but pet birds are even more sensitive. In cases of "Teflon toxicosis," as the bird poisonings are called, the lungs of exposed birds hemorrhage and fill with blood, leading to suffocation. DuPont studies show that the fumes can also sicken people, a condition called "polymer fume fever." The government has not assessed human health risks or the incidence of polymer fume fever from kitchen exposures to these particles and gases when pans are overheated. Non-stick coatings can contain residues of PFOA (perfluorooctanoate), a chemical used to make Teflon and a breakdown product of stain- and grease-proof coatings on carpet, clothing and food packaging. PFOA is found in the bodies of nearly all Americans. It is a likely human carcinogen; it also has a variety of metabolic developmental, reproductive, endocrine, and neurobiological health effects. Many manufacturers of non-stick cookware have committed to eliminating PFOA residues from non-stick coatings. Available data suggest that non-stick pans are not a major source of PFOA in people's bodies. These exposures are more likely to come from stain- and grease-proof coatings on furniture, clothing, and food packaging. Studies also show that most of the potential health risks from non-stick pans, such as polymer fume fever, come not from PFOA but from other particles and fumes that can come off the pan when it is overheated. While EWG continues to track the changes in manufacturing practices for non-stick cookware, we highly recommend stainless steel and cast iron as great alternatives to non-stick cooking surface. Source: http://www.ewg.org/EWGFAQ#


How safe is Teflon in fabrics?

At high temperatures cookware coated with Teflon and other non-stick surfaces can break apart and emits toxic particles and gases. The fumes can sick people, but pet birds are even more sensitive. In cases of "Teflon toxicosis," as the bird poisonings are called, the lungs of exposed birds hemorrhage and fill with blood, leading to suffocation. DuPont studies show that the fumes can also sicken people, a condition called "polymer fume fever." The government has not assessed human health risks or the incidence of polymer fume fever from kitchen exposures to these particles and gases when pans are overheated. Non-stick coatings can contain residues of PFOA (perfluorooctanoate), a chemical used to make Teflon and a breakdown product of stain- and grease-proof coatings on carpet, clothing and food packaging. PFOA is found in the bodies of nearly all Americans. It is a likely human carcinogen; it also has a variety of metabolic developmental, reproductive, endocrine, and neurobiological health effects. Many manufacturers of non-stick cookware have committed to eliminating PFOA residues from non-stick coatings. Available data suggest that non-stick pans are not a major source of PFOA in people's bodies. These exposures are more likely to come from stain- and grease-proof coatings on furniture, clothing, and food packaging. Studies also show that most of the potential health risks from non-stick pans, such as polymer fume fever, come not from PFOA but from other particles and fumes that can come off the pan when it is overheated. While EWG continues to track the changes in manufacturing practices for non-stick cookware, we highly recommend stainless steel and cast iron as great alternatives to non-stick cooking surface. Source: http://www.ewg.org/EWGFAQ#


What are the disadvantages of teflon?

At high temperatures cookware coated with Teflon and other non-stick surfaces can break apart and emits toxic particles and gases. The fumes can sick people, but pet birds are even more sensitive. In cases of "Teflon toxicosis," as the bird poisonings are called, the lungs of exposed birds hemorrhage and fill with blood, leading to suffocation. DuPont studies show that the fumes can also sicken people, a condition called "polymer fume fever." The government has not assessed human health risks or the incidence of polymer fume fever from kitchen exposures to these particles and gases when pans are overheated. Non-stick coatings can contain residues of PFOA (perfluorooctanoate), a chemical used to make Teflon and a breakdown product of stain- and grease-proof coatings on carpet, clothing and food packaging. PFOA is found in the bodies of nearly all Americans. It is a likely human carcinogen; it also has a variety of metabolic developmental, reproductive, endocrine, and neurobiological health effects. Many manufacturers of non-stick cookware have committed to eliminating PFOA residues from non-stick coatings. Available data suggest that non-stick pans are not a major source of PFOA in people's bodies. These exposures are more likely to come from stain- and grease-proof coatings on furniture, clothing, and food packaging. Studies also show that most of the potential health risks from non-stick pans, such as polymer fume fever, come not from PFOA but from other particles and fumes that can come off the pan when it is overheated. While EWG continues to track the changes in manufacturing practices for non-stick cookware, we highly recommend stainless steel and cast iron as great alternatives to non-stick cooking surface. Source: http://www.ewg.org/EWGFAQ#