Sustainable RDN

How microplastics may alter gut health: New research & strategies for limiting plastic pollution

A new review published in the journal Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology has concluded that microplastics may alter gut health (Bora et al., 2024). Microplastics are small particles of plastic less than five millimeters long; they are found in many food and beverage products including beer. They are also present in water bottles, seafood, table salt, and fruits and vegetables. Consumption of food and beverages is one of the main ways that individuals ingest microplastics (Bambridge-Sutton, 2024).

According to the researchers (Bora et al., 2024), when microplastics accumulate in the gastrointestinal tract (where they remain for a long time due to their resistance to digestion) dysbiosis can occur, which is an imbalance between beneficial and harmful, pathogenic bacteria. Such an imbalance has been linked to numerous health conditions such as weakened immunity, impaired gut function and increased risk of gastrointestinal disorders. (Bambridge-Sutton, 2024; Bora et al., 2024)

“Gut dysbiosis may lead to inflammatory responses and increase gut permeability, leading to the condition often known as ‘leaky gut.’ This can lead to leakage of pathogens into circulation, potentially resulting in autoimmunity (where the body’s immune system attacks the body’s own tissues). Microplastics also exacerbate this through microabrasions in the gut lining. They may also carry chemicals such as heavy metals and persistent organic pollutants (POPs) which can further damage the gut lining.” (Bambridge-Sutton, 2024; Bora et al., 2024)

Microplastics can disrupt the gut-heart axis and gut-kidney access, which are important components of heart and kidney health. In addition, the presence of microplastics can result in systemic inflammation, which in turn can lead to diabetes, obesity as well as cardiovascular and autoimmune diseases. Finally, according to this newly published review, microplastics may lead to imbalances in energy storage and expenditure. (Bambridge-Sutton, 2024; Bora et al., 2024)

The authors recommend that policy makers respond with improvements in public policy including regulating plastic production and disposal more effectively, improving waste management, and developing alternatives to plastic such as biodegradable materials. Finally, it is recommended that microplastic levels in air, water, and food be monitored, water be filtered, and air quality be improved (Bambridge-Sutton, 2024; Bora et al., 2024)

How to Limit Plastic Pollution: Strategies that Work

There are several evidence-based strategies that can help stop plastic pollution (Jones, 2024). Of course, some of these strategies come with caveats and/or unexpected consequences demonstrating that such policies, once adopted, need to be monitored over time. These strategies include 1) banning single-use plastics; 2) taxing plastics and/or requiring plastic producers pay a fee to encourage recycling, 3) cut down on microplastic use (Jones, 2024) and 4) limit the use of plastic in your kitchen (Nowell, 2024). Learn more below about each of these strategies to limit plastic pollution.

Ban single-use plastics

“More than 90 nations and territories have passed full or partial bans on single-use plastic products such as carrier bags. These bans can be very effective. One analysis showed that bans in five US states and cities together cut consumption of single-use plastic bags by about six billion bags per year. Several studies have also shown huge reductions in plastic litter in waterways, says McCauley. Even fees can work. A litter survey in the United Kingdom found that the number of plastic bags found on beaches dropped by 80% after the nation introduced a mandatory fee for single-use carrier bags, although other forms of litter had increased.

But bans that are poorly designed or enforced are likely to be ineffective. California, for example, allowed shops to switch to thicker, reusable carrier bags — but people still threw them away, leading to a higher rate of plastic disposal than before. Policies need to be monitored and reviewed, says McCauley. “You have to put a policy in place, take data and then whack-a-mole the loopholes.”” (Jones, 2024)

Tax plastics and require that companies pay a fee for plastic packaging to be recycled

Tax Plastics

Numerous countries around the world have either passed a tax on plastics or proposed such a tax.

For a summary, see: Plastic Tax, Levy & Penalty (2024)

https://www.apchemi.com/post/plastic-tax-levy-penalty-2024

Based on a recent ruling, Colombia taxes single-use plastics both for domestic use and exports. “In a landmark decision, Colombia’s tax authority (DIAN) published Ruling 294 on 25 April 2024, marking a significant turn in the country’s battle against single-use plastics. This ruling clarifies the application of taxes on the sales of single-use plastic products used in packaging.”

“The ruling also confirms that the tax extends beyond Colombia’s borders, impacting sales of single-use plastic products in international markets; meaning that exports of such products will now also be subject to taxation. The ruling underscores the government’s commitment to environmental conservation and a cohesive approach toward curbing plastic waste, both domestically and internationally.” (Reg Follower, 2024)

Pay a fee for plastic packing to be recycled

“Many nations and US states require companies that produce plastic packaging to pay for it to be recycled, which can boost recycling rates. In Spain, for example, the government introduced an ‘extended producer responsibilities’ policy, and the recycling of paper and plastics rose from 5% up to 81%.”

“Such policies are also meant to incentivize companies to redesign their packaging, but because most of the fees are based on weight, they mainly influence the amount of packaging used rather than its composition. A good idea, says Richard Thompson, a marine scientist at the University of Plymouth, UK, and a co-lead of the scientists’ coalition, is to have a policy that rewards or mandates inclusion of recycled content in products: in the United Kingdom, for example, plastic producers pay a tax of £217.85 (US$274) per tonne of plastic, but only for packaging that’s less than 30% recycled.” Such incentives “will pull demand in the right way”, says Thompson.

“As with all policies, there are some good, some bad, says Farrelly. She has seen policies that end up increasing the use of recycling centers in the Pacific islands that don’t have high safety standards for their workers, for example.” (Jones, 2024)

It is worth noting that not everyone is a proponent of recycling plastics, without strict regulations for doing so, because of the leaching of toxic chemicals. This point is illustrated in an article written by Dr. Bethanie Carney, Almroth Associate Professor, Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Gothenburg and Dr. Eric Carmona Martinez, Scientist at the Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research-UFZ, which you can read here:

Dangerous chemicals found in recycled plastics, making them unsafe for use – experts explain the hazards (2024)

https://theconversation.com/dangerous-chemicals-found-in-recycled-plastics-making-them-unsafe-for-use-experts-explain-the-hazards-220498

As the authors note in their article:

“In designing rules for managing plastic, it’s important to understand that plastic materials and waste streams are complex. Not all plastics are the same. And recycled plastics are not necessarily “better” – less harmful – than virgin plastics. If they contained harmful chemicals to begin with, recycling doesn’t make them less harmful. And sometimes they are contaminated by other substances.”

“[These authors] conducted a study identifying and measuring the concentration of contaminants in recycled pellets from 28 small-scale recycling facilities in the global south. Plastic waste is often exported from high income countries to less developed countries, with few to no requirements for reporting their makeup.”

[Their] investigation covered facilities in Cameroon, Mauritius, Nigeria, Tanzania and Togo in Africa as well others in Asia, Europe and South America.

[They] found 191 pesticides, 107 pharmaceuticals and 81 industrial compounds among many others in the recycled plastic pellets. Many of these chemicals could be hazardous and make the plastics unsuitable for reuse.

This finding can inform regulations for recycled plastics. The chemical composition of the plastic should be checked before it is recycled…

[Their] findings emphasize the importance of regulating mechanical recycling, as many of the substances measured were contaminants and not plastic additives. Many of the chemicals we identified may have contaminated the materials during use. For example, a jug used for storing pesticides will absorb some of the pesticides and will contaminate the recycling waste stream. Plastics in the environment are also known to absorb organic pollutants.

To assess the quality of recycled plastics, it’s crucial to know which chemicals are present and in what concentrations. This information can guide regulations about how recycled plastics may be used. It will also be valuable for plastics producers, waste management workers (including recyclers), consumers, and the scientific community.” (Carney Almroth and Carmona Martinez, 2024)

Cut down microplastics use

“One of the most pernicious forms of plastic pollution is microplastics: tiny chunks that are, for example, abraded off car tires, washed out of textiles or released from products such as cosmetics. Microplastics are thought to make up 15–31% of the estimated 9.5 million tons of plastic released into the oceans each year. More than a dozen countries have banned microbeads from cosmetics, which has put significant pressure on companies to stop using them, says Thompson.

France has become first country to mandate that new washing machines have a microfiber filter, a policy that’s due to come into effect in January next year. Thompson’s group tested six such filters and found that some can be reasonably effective³; one reduced the amount of microfiber content in the wastewater by more than 75%.

Filters aren’t a panacea for microplastics in clothes, says Thompson, because about half of a garment’s fibres are shed during wear. A shift in how textiles are made would be more effective, he says, but this has proven a hard task for national legislation to tackle. “This is a classic example of why we need an international treaty,” says Thompson.” (Jones, 2024)

Tips to Cut Down Plastic Use in Your Kitchen: Reduce, Reuse and Refuse

“Cutting boards, non-stick pans, mixing bowls, even tea bags: in the kitchen, plastics can be hidden in plain sight.” (Nowell, 2024)

According to Jessica Brinkworth, an anthropology professor at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign:

“Large macroplastics are a problem worldwide because we dump them on the shores of other nations,” she says, where things like plastic bottles block access to food for coastal nations and kill about a million people a year due to flooding, landslides and other environmental disasters. Much smaller plastics, like micro and nanoplastics, which are tinier than a grain of rice, “pose a whole other level of problem. Many types of plastic are endocrine disruptors,” meaning they disrupt the excretion and use of insulin, which can lead to obesity and reproductive health disorders.

Every year, we dump 10m tons of plastic into the ocean, killing a million marine animals annually. That plastic can work its way into our bodies from both the food we eat (most of our seafood contains microplastics) to how we cook in the kitchen.”

Shopping

The first and most important way to cut back on plastic use at the grocery store or supermarket, is to simply buy less. “Make a conscious choice to avoid buying products you don’t need and when you do, look for products that are made from sustainably sourced natural materials.” The more you cook from scratch, the less plastic you’ll use from packaged or highly processed foods.

If you haven’t already gotten in the habit of taking your own bags to the grocery store, start – and while you’re at it, consider adding your own reusable bags, which can be used for produce and other items.

Organic Cotton Eco-Friendly Bags

Produce Bag

Shopping at traditional grocery stores isn’t your only option: more zero-waste shops are springing up (where you can bring your own containers or use non-plastic ones the store offers to take home exactly as many lentils or bunches of broccoli as you’ll use) and plenty of farmers’ markets allow customers to bring their own glass jars or produce bags so you’re not toting home plastic cartons. Depending on where you live, you might even be able to swap plastic milk cartons for glass bottles (and rekindle the nostalgia of a visit from the milkman) by opting into a milk delivery service.

Cooking

You might not think there’s very much plastic in your kitchen if you’re only thinking about clear packaging, but almost every household is home to at least some plastic kitchen appliances. Think about your cutting board, mixing bowls, non-stick (Teflon-coated) pans, spatulas, blender or food processor. Plastic appliances can release high levels of micro and nanoplastics, especially if your heating with, chopping on or blending in them.

Earlier this year, researchers at North Dakota State University published a study that found that chopping on plastic cutting boards can release millions of microplastics each year. Other recent research has counted the microplastics released from using plastic mixing bowls, blenders, kettles and non-stick pans.

The best way to avoid that? Switch your plastic appliances out for metal, glass or wooden ones where possible, says Brinkworth. But be careful when looking at wood or bamboo appliances that you consider the glue used to hold them together. Even just the glue used to seal a tea bag can release billions of microplastics. (Nowell, 2024)

Big Heart Tea offers plastic-free tea tags. Learn more at:

Big Heart Plastic Free Tea Bags

https://bighearttea.com/pages/plastic-free-tea-bags

Or try making your own loose-leaf tea

How to Make Loose Leaf Tea: A Step-by-Step Guide

https://artfultea.com/blogs/101/how-to-prepare-tea

Storing

Plastic wrap has easily one of the greatest impacts on the environment: we only ever use it once and it can take close to 1,000 years to decompose in landfills. And plastic packaging – think cling wrap, sandwich bags and candy wrappers – makes up almost half of the plastic waste that ends up in the ocean. Therefore, it is important to think about reusable alternatives.

You can pick up reusable beeswax cling wrap at many grocery stores. Reuseable cling wrap is easy to clean but will eventually start to flake. However, a simpler solution for most people would be just to use mason jars,” which you can find for about a dollar a piece at many thrift stores. In general, switching to glass jars (or glass storage containers, if they’re in your budget) is better for the environment and your body. Plastic containers can leech cancer-causing and hormone-disrupting chemicals into your food. (Nowell, 2024)

Cleaning

If you thought you had cleared your kitchen of plastics, the prevalence of plastic in your cleaning routine might surprise you. Dishwasher pods get the worst rap (the polyvinyl alcohol wrapping doesn’t break down in water treatment plants), but if the interior of your dishwasher is made out of plastic, it’s releasing microplastics with every wash. Few dishwashers have no plastic whatsoever. Splurge for a stainless-steel interior (dishwasher) if you can afford it (or hand washing when your life allows).

Handwashing won’t get rid of all the plastics in your kitchen though either – if you’re using liquid dish soap, it’s likely packaged in a plastic bottle. Fortunately, a few brands have started selling dish soap bars and liquid dish soap packaged in cardboard. Most sponges are made of plastic too, but more stores are selling natural sponges and dishcloths as demand increases. Those can be worthwhile alternatives to keep plastic out of your own body, and from plastic slipping down the drain. (Nowell, 2024)

References

Bora SS, Gogoi R, Sharma MR, et al. Microplastics and human health: unveiling the gut microbiome disruption and chronic disease risks. Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology. 2024;14:1492759.

Bambridge-Sutton A. How microplastics affect gut health. Food Navigator – Europe. November 28, 2024. Available at: https://www.foodnavigator.com/Article/2024/11/28/microplastics-may-harm-gut-health/

Jones N. How to stop plastic pollution: three strategies that acutally work. Nature News. November 27, 2024. Available at: https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-024-03860-x

Plastic Tax, Levy & Penalty (2024). APChemi. Available at: https://www.apchemi.com/post/plastic-tax-levy-penalty-2024

Colombia to tax sales of single-use plastics in home and abroad. Reg Follower. May 15, 2024. Available at: https://regfollower.com/colombia-to-tax-sales-of-single-use-plastics-in-home-and-abroad/

Carney Almroth B, Carmona Martinez E. Dangerous chemicals found in recycled plastics, making them unsafe for use – experts explain the hazards. The Conversation. January 14, 2024. Available at: https://theconversation.com/dangerous-chemicals-found-in-recycled-plastics-making-them-unsafe-for-use-experts-explain-the-hazards-220498

Nowell C. Reduce, reuse, refuse: tips to cut down plastic use in your kitchen. The Guardian. January 4, 2024. Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2024/jan/04/how-to-reduce-plastic-use-kitchen-shopping-cooking-tips#:~:text=%E2%80%9CMake%20a%20conscious%20choice%20to,used%20to%20wrap%20frozen%20vegetables%2C

How much food does the world waste? What we know, and what we don’t

Globally, approximately 40% of food is either lost or wasted along the value chain, exposing a major blind spot in food systems. And while 40% of the world’s food is wasted or lost annually, millions of people across the globe face hunger. This fact alone should help us think more critically about the food on our plates. This statistic should also help us think about how to use our food purchases to support more equitable food systems, plan portions wisely, and get creative with leftovers. (Goodwin and Lipinski, 2024)

The Consequences of Food Waste

“The consequences of this food waste, even at the lower end of the estimates, are huge. It means that an amount of land larger than China is used every year to produce food that no one will eat — especially egregious in a world where nearly 1 in 3 people face some level of food insecurity. About 45 trillion gallons of water, almost one-quarter of all water used in agriculture, is consumed in the process. And food waste is linked to about 8%-10% of the greenhouse gas emissions warming the planet.

The UN has set a goal to halve food loss and waste globally by 2030. But countries and companies can’t begin to tackle the issue unless they know how much food is really lost or wasted — and where and why.” (Goodwin and Lipinski, 2024)

Why Is It So Hard to Measure Food Loss and Waste?

“Today, we have only a rough idea of how much food is lost or wasted around the world. The widely used ‘one-third’ statistic is based on data from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), but it is only an estimate. This figure doesn’t include food that is lost before it leaves the farm, such as crops that aren’t fully harvested or spoil in storage.

More recent data from Tesco and the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) suggests that about 40% of the world’s food supply goes to waste when on-farm losses are also considered.

But these numbers can only be so useful. Most are extrapolated from global data that isn’t complete, relying on individual studies from various years to produce broad estimates. This can provide a general picture of food loss and waste within a region, but it is less helpful for pinpointing where exactly waste occurs and taking targeted action to reduce it.

In some cases, the data is also decades old; FAO’s estimate is based on a 2011 study. Updated and more precise data just isn’t available, as only 12% of the global population lives in countries currently tracking food loss and waste within their borders.” (Goodwin and Lipinski, 2024)

“Accurately gauging how much food is lost or wasted involves measuring a lot of things across the supply chain — from how much fruit is left unharvested in the fields, to the vegetable scraps that a line cook throws out, to the questionable cheese in the back of your fridge. Almost no one is measuring on-farm food loss, in part because it can be difficult to determine the boundary between different causes, such as poor harvesting techniques or disease.” (Goodwin and Lipinski, 2024)

“On top of that, many companies are still extremely reluctant to publish their food waste data due to possible reputational risks. Businesses may be worried about the public reaction and how their waste will compare with other companies. Or they may know they’re wasting a lot and want to start improving before they publish any data.

On the other side of the supply chain, household waste is especially difficult to measure. People generally aren’t very good at estimating how much food they throw out; one study found that almost half of Britons surveyed underestimated the economic cost of the food they wasted. In fact, most U.K. consumers say they don’t waste food at all, but research by the Waste and Resources Action Programme (WRAP) shows that 70% of food waste in the U.K. comes from households.” (Goodwin and Lipinski, 2024)

“The reality is that most people do waste food. It’s not a problem limited to higher-income countries, either; research has shown food waste to be a growing issue in cities worldwide. And because organic waste isn’t collected separately in most places, the only way to get accurate data on household food waste is to go through bins manually and analyze what is in them, an expensive and time-consuming process.” (Goodwin and Lipinski, 2024)

Major Companies Have Shown that Tracking and Reducing Food Waste Yields Big Benefits

“So far, most progress on measuring and reducing food loss and waste has come from the private sector. Not only do big companies have the power to address waste up and down the supply chain, but they also have a financial incentive to do so. Research suggests that when food-related businesses such as restaurants and hotels invest in waste reduction programs, they can see up to a 14-fold return on their investment.” (Goodwin and Lipinski, 2024)

About the 10x20x30 Initiative

Both “IKEA and Danone are part of the 10x20x30 initiative, through which major global food retailers are working with at least 20 of their suppliers each to halve food loss and waste by 2030. 10x20x30 is part of Champions 12.3, a coalition of governments, businesses and others working to accelerate food loss and waste solutions worldwide. WRI is the Co-Secretariat of Champions 12.3. Learn more.

IKEA is a front-runner here. After pledging to halve food loss and waste by 2030, IKEA became the first global company to do so in all its restaurants in 2023 — reducing waste by 54%, years ahead of schedule. The company invested significant resources toward this goal, from hiring a dedicated team; to outfitting its restaurants with smart scales to measure food waste; to partnering with the Too Good to Go app, which allows customers to purchase discounted food that would otherwise be thrown out. But the payoff was big: In addition to saving more than 20 million meals and avoiding 36,000 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions — equivalent to the emissions from more than 8,000 cars — every year, this shift is saving IKEA $37 million annually.” (Goodwin and Lipinski, 2024)

Governments Need to Play a Bigger Role to Address Waste on a Global Scale

“While private sector progress is important, it’s piecemeal by nature. Governments need to do more to promote tracking and reduction of food loss and waste across the entire value chain, from farms and factories to businesses and households.

Governments often struggle to understand what their role should be when it comes to reducing food waste. For example, should they focus on farmers or consumers, which require different approaches and different communications strategies? Which tactics will be most effective: requiring businesses to report on food loss and waste and work with their suppliers to reduce it? Incentivizing farmers to minimize losses in their fields? Or developing public behavior-change campaigns to slash waste in people’s homes? Recent global events — including the COVID-19 pandemic and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine — also made food loss and waste less of a priority issue for many governments as they focused on food security, price spikes and supply disruptions.

Still, some countries have made more progress than others on collecting national-level data and implementing solutions.” (Goodwin and Lipinski, 2024)

“The U.K. has made great strides on measuring household food waste using periodic surveys and data from waste management authorities. It also developed the first-ever voluntary agreement with companies to address food loss and waste, known as the Courtauld Agreement. More than 300 food businesses have joined the effort, which is also helping farmers measure on-farm losses, promoting public behavior change and more. Recently, over 30 major companies have urged the U.K. government to go further and mandate reporting on food loss and waste.

In addition, all EU countries now measure food waste along supply chains (although not on farms) to some degree. And last year the European Commission proposed setting legally binding targets requiring EU member states to reduce food waste by 10% in processing and manufacturing and by 30% (per capita) jointly across restaurants, food service establishments and households by the end of 2030. The United States also recently announced a national strategy to reduce food loss and waste.” (Goodwin and Lipinski, 2024)

“Other governments should follow these examples, using a combination of policy, education and financial levers to both mandate food waste tracking and support farmers, businesses and others in doing so. An immediate step countries can take is to incorporate food loss and waste reduction into their next national climate commitments (known as Nationally Determined Contributions), which are due in 2025.” (Goodwin and Lipinski, 2024)

Moving from Measurement to Action

“Too often, it can be easy to get hung up on new “miracle” technologies for addressing food waste — such as smart fridges that can track expiration dates and suggest recipes based on the food you already have. But as useful as emerging technologies may be, they can also be a distraction from doing things that we already know work: processing and storing food properly, planning meals, freezing leftovers and donating to food banks.

The solutions are not rocket science; simple things like training employees with proper food handling skills or making small changes to the manufacturing process can have a huge impact. But they need much better communication up and down the chain. Right now, one end doesn’t know what the other end is doing, which means solving a problem at one stage might result in worse problems elsewhere — like switching to a crop strain with higher yields that ends up being more susceptible to damage during transportation or storage.

Ultimately, the success of any strategy to reduce food waste will depend on accurate and timely data to reveal issues and inform solutions.” (Goodwin and Lipinski, 2024)

“Through the Champions 12.3 coalition, [World Resources Institute] WRI encourages a “target-measure-act” approach. The global target to cut food loss and waste in half has been set. Now, both countries and companies need to step up by connecting ambitious food loss and waste reduction targets to their climate strategies. If they haven’t already, they must first quantify a base-year amount of food loss and waste inside their operations or borders and then begin monitoring change over time — and publicly reporting how much food they are wasting. It’s the only way we can get to the next step: ramping up actions that save more food from garbage bins and landfills and put it into the hands of people who need it.” (Goodwin and Lipinski, 2024)

Reducing Household Food Waste: Simple Tips that Generate Win-Wins for People and the Planet

These tips from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) can help you reduce food waste in your household.

https://www.fao.org/platform-food-loss-waste/food-waste/food-waste-reduction/how-to-reduce-your-food-waste/en

1. Shop smart

2. Cook smarter

3. Buy “ugly” fruits and vegetables

4. Is your fridge working properly?

5. Practice first in, first out

6. Understand food storage

7. Do you fully understand the date labels on food?

8. Ask for smaller portions

9. Love your leftovers

10. Be creative

11. Share food: make use of food sharing apps

12. Donate surplus food to food charities

13. Technology can help out

14. Compost food scraps

References

Goodwin L, Lipinski B How much food does the world really waste? What we know and what we don’t. World Resources Institute. November 25, 2024. Available at: https://www.wri.org/insights/how-much-food-does-the-world-waste

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). Reducing food waste in the household: Simple tips that generate win-wins for people and the planet. Rome, Italy: FAO. Undated. Available at: https://www.fao.org/platform-food-loss-waste/food-waste/food-waste-reduction/how-to-reduce-your-food-waste/en

Sorghum, a sustainable grain, may have anti-diabetes and anti-inflammatory properties: New research

A recent study conducted by researchers at Hokkaido University and the University of Sydney has unveiled the health benefits of sorghum. “The team identified unique lipids that were known to have anti-diabetic and anti-inflammatory properties” named fatty acid esters of hydroxy fatty acids (FAHFAs) and characterized the diverse lipid profiles among six sorghum cultivars. This research was published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry.

Photo Credit: Luis Rodriguez/Unsplash

Sorghum, a lesser-known grain fed to animals in developed countries, boasts significant nutritional potential that remains largely untapped for human consumption. “This oversight presents a critical challenge for health-conscious consumers and nutritionists who are increasingly searching for sustainable food options to address chronic health issues. Sorghum is not only abundant but also resilient, requiring fewer resources than many other crops, making it environmentally friendly.” (Technology Networks Applied Sciences, 2024; Nath et al. 2024)

This new research by Nath et al. 2024 suggests that incorporating sorghum into diets could promote cardiovascular health, reduce inflammation, and enhance metabolic health.

The primary objective of these scientists’ research is to identify comparable compounds in a variety of cereals and food sources, thereby improving our comprehension of these lipids and their functions in human health, nutrition, and agriculture.

“Sorghum is a grain that is both versatile and has substantial health benefits,” concludes Professor Shu-Ping Hui, the other corresponding author.

“This research not only addresses the demand for sustainable food alternatives but also fosters the development of functional foods.” (Technology Networks Applied Sciences, 2024; Nath et al., 2024)

Sorghum Recipes

If you are unfamiliar with how to use sorghum in cooking, be sure to check out Bob’s Red Mill for sorghum-based recipes – which are available on their website at:

Bob’s Red Mill: Sorghum Grain – Recipes

https://www.bobsredmill.com/recipes/using/gluten-free-sorghum-grain/

Basic Preparation for Gluten-Free Sorghum Grain

https://www.bobsredmill.com/recipes/how-to-make/basic-preparation-instructions-for-gluten-free-sorghum-grain

I have tried several recipes myself and they are excellent. These include:

Curried Carrots and Sorghum

https://www.bobsredmill.com/recipes/how-to-make/curried-carrots-and-sorghum

Roasted Cherry Tomato Arugula and Sorghum Salad

https://www.bobsredmill.com/recipes/how-to-make/roasted-cherry-tomato-arugula-and-sorghum-salad-recipe

Mediterranean Sorghum Grain Bowl

https://www.bobsredmill.com/recipes/how-to-make/mediterranean-sorghum-grain-bowl

And with Thanksgiving right around the corner (November 28), you can try this recipe for sorghum and cranberry stuffing:

Sorghum and Cranberry Stuffing

https://www.bobsredmill.com/recipes/how-to-make/sorghum-and-cranberry-stuffing

References

Nath LR, B. Gowda SG, Roberts TH, Gowda D, Khoddami A, Hui SP. Nontargeted lipidomics of sorghum grain reveals novel fatty acid esters of hydroxy fatty acids and cultivar differences in lipid profiles. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. 2024;72(37):20690-20703. doi:10.1021/acs.jafc.4c05919

Press release. Sorghum’s bioactive compounds could improve modern diets. Hokkaido University. October 29, 2024. Available at: https://www.global.hokudai.ac.jp/blog/sorghums-bioactive-compounds-could-improve-modern-diets/

The sustainable grain with anti-diabetic properties. Technology Network Applied Sciences. October 29, 2024. Available at: https://www.technologynetworks.com/applied-sciences/news/the-sustainable-grain-with-anti-diabetic-properties-392651

Nearly 200 potential breast cancer carcinogens detected in food packaging and other food contact materials: New study

In a study published in Frontiers in Toxicology on September 24, 2024 (Parkinson et al., 2024), researchers from the Food Packaging Forum identified 189 potential and confirmed mammary carcinogens that have been detected in food contact materials (FCMs) on the market.

This study “shows that there is a huge opportunity for prevention of human exposure to breast cancer-causing chemicals,” said Jane Muncke, Managing Director of the Food Packaging Forum and co-author of the study. “The potential for cancer prevention by reducing hazardous chemicals in your daily life is underexplored and deserves much more attention.”

By comparing a recently published list of potential breast carcinogens developed by scientists at the Silent Spring Institute with the Food Packaging Forum’s own Database on migrating and extractable food contact chemicals (FCCmigex), the authors found that 189 potential and confirmed breast carcinogens have been detected in FCMs, including 143 in plastics and 89 in paper or board (Figure 1).

Figure 1. The number of potential mammary carcinogens as identified by Kay et al. (2024) that have been detected in migration or extraction studies of five food contact material groups (Source: Parkinson et al., 2024)

“Identifying the presence of these hazardous chemicals in food contact materials was possible thanks to our FCCmigex Database,” said Lindsey Parkinson, Data Scientist and Scientific Editor at the Food Packaging Forum and co-author of the study. “This resource brings valuable information from thousands of published scientific studies on chemicals in food contact materials together into a single and easily explorable place.”

“When limiting the comparison to the most recently available studies in FCCmigex (2020-2022) that used migration experiments , which mimic realistic conditions, there is evidence of exposure to 76 potential and confirmed mammary carcinogens from FCMs, 61 of which (80%) are from plastics.”

“In all, the 76 recently detected potential and confirmed mammary carcinogens were in FCMs purchased from markets all over the world including Brazil, Canada, China, Ghana, Egypt, the European Union (Austria, Denmark, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Poland, Spain), India, Iran, Malaysia, Mexico, Nigeria, Syria, Turkey, and the United States. This indicates continued exposure of the global population to these chemicals under realistic use conditions.”

“Despite existing regulations intended to limit carcinogenic substances in FCMs, the study highlights gaps in current regulatory frameworks. The food contact articles were purchased within the last few years from markets in highly regulated regions, including the EU and the US.”

“Our findings imply that chronic exposure of the entire population to suspected mammary carcinogens from FCMs is the norm and highlights an important, but currently underappreciated, opportunity for prevention,” the authors explain.

This mammary carcinogens study was published with other articles in the theme of “emerging topics on chemical safety assessment”. The editors of the research topic published an opinion piece on what they consider outdated testing and risk management procedures in US federal risk assessments. (Parkinson et al., 2024; Parkinson, 2024)

How to Reduce Possible Health Risks from Packaged Foods

Several ways to reduce the health risks from packaged foods include the following:

Choose Packaging-Free Options – You can reduce health risks from food packaging by minimizing reliance on packaged foods. Grocery stores and farmers’ markets offer packaging-free options for important items including fruits, vegetables and grains. Shopping in bulk, bringing your own containers and resuable bags, and opting for fresh, unpackaged fruits and vegetables, are easy ways to avoid exposure to harmful chemicals in packaging materials. To summarize:

Go Bulk: Shop at bulk food stores and fill your own containers with dry goods like grains, nuts, and legumes.
Go Local: Visit farmers’ markets and buy produce directly from local farmers, many of whom offer packaging-free products.
Go Local(er): Grow your own vegetables or fruits at home to avoid packaging entirely.
Reuse: Reusable cloth bags, jars, and containers keep food safer, reduce waste and help the environment.

Avoid Plastic Packaging – Plastic is the most common materials used in food packaging, but often contains harmful BPA, phthalates, and other harmful chemical additives, which can find their way into your food. These substances are known endocrine disruptors and have been linked to various health issues such as cancer, as well as obesity, infertility, and developmental disorders. Reducing use of plastic packaging can significantly lower exposure to the effects of these chemicals.

Check out these easy-to-use eco-friendly organic produce bags at the link below:

Organic Cotton Eco-Friendly Produce Bags

Produce Bag

If you are using products that come in cardboard packaging, avoid ones treated with water-resistant coatings or contains plastic linings. When you can’t avoid using plastics, look for ones that are labeled BPA-free. They may still contain other harmful chemicals like BPS (bisphenol-S).

Pay Attention to Recycling Codes – Some types of plastics are more harmful than others. Understanding recycling codes on plastic packaging can help avoid them. The recycling code number, typically between 1 and 7, is found on the bottom of plastic containers. Each number represents a different type of plastic. Some are more prone to releasing harmful chemicals. Try to avoid materials using the following recycling codes:

#3 (PVC): PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, often contains harmful additives like phthalates, which can get into food.
#6 (Polystyrene): Commonly found in foam take-out containers and disposable cups, polystyrene may release styrene, a chemical linked to cancer.
#7 (Other): This category includes polycarbonate plastics, which often contain BPA. Be cautious of packaging labeled with this number.

Limit Exposure to Canned Foods – Canned foods are convenient, but they often come with health risks due to lining of their cans. Cans can be coated with a resin that contains BPA. BPA can get into the food, acidic products like tomatoes, has been linked to hormone disruption, reproductive issues, and an increased risk of cancer.

Store Food Safely – Storing food properly at home can help reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals. If food packaging is unavoidable at the store, take steps to store food more safely once it’s in your home. Heat, in particular, can accelerate the chemicals from packaging getting into food. It’s important to take the time to use safe storage practices by doing the following:

Transfer Food to Glass or Stainless-Steel Containers: After purchasing food, transfer out of plastic packaging and into glass or stainless-steel containers for storage. This reduces the risk of chemical leaching over time.
Avoid Heating Food in Plastic: Never microwave food in plastic containers or plastic wrap. The heat can cause chemicals to leach into the food. Always use microwave-safe glass or ceramic containers for reheating food
Freeze Food in Safe Materials: If freezing food, don’t use plastic wrap or bags. Instead, use freezer-safe glass containers or stainless steel.

Be Cautious with Takeout and Disposable Packaging – Most takeout containers are made from polystyrene foam, plastics, and other materials that may release harmful chemicals. Frequent consumption of food from these sources increases exposure to potentially toxic substances.

You can be better informed and make smarter choices by looking out for certain brands who offer options with fewer toxins. This includes brands that use sustainable, compostable, or biodegradable packaging materials. A good place to start learning about options for safer packaging can be found in this article. From there, do your own research to buy as smart as possible.

Reducing health risks associated with food packaging is possible through informed decision-making and lifestyle changes. By choosing packaging-free or safer alternatives, avoiding harmful plastics, limiting exposure to canned foods, and adopting better storage practices, consumers can significantly reduce their risk of exposure to toxic chemicals. Moreover, supporting companies that prioritize safer packaging can drive industry-wide change, ultimately leading to healthier food systems for everyone. (Comprehensive Cancer Centers, 2024)

References

Parkinson, LV; Geueke, B; Muncke, J. Potential mammary carcinogens used in food contact articles: Implications for policy, enforcement, and prevention. Frontiers in Toxicology. 2024; DOI: 10.3389/ftox.2024.1440331

Parkinson L. FPF study: Food contact articles from all major markets contain potential and confirmed breast carcinogens. Food Packaging Forum. September 24, 2024. Available at: https://foodpackagingforum.org/news/fpf-study-food-contact-articles-from-all-major-markets-contain-potential-and-confirmed-breast-carcinogens

Comprehensive Cancer Centers. Comprehensive Cancer Centers explores how to reduce food packaging-based breast cancer risks. October 22, 2204. Available at: https://cccnevada.com/comprehensive-explores-how-to-reduce-food-packaging-based-breast-cancer-risks/#:~:text=A%20recent%20study%20noted%20by,packaging%20also%20can%20be%20toxic.

Yates, J., Kadiyala, S., Deeney, M. et al. A toxic relationship: ultra-processed foods & plastics. Globalization and Health. 2024;20:74. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12992-024-01078-0

Kliemann N, Al Nahas A, Vamos EP, Touvier M, Kesse-Guyot E, Gunter MJ, Millett C, Huybrechts I. Ultra-processed foods and cancer risk: from global food systems to individual exposures and mechanisms. British Journal of Cancer. 2022:14-20. doi: 10.1038/s41416-022-01749-y

UN FAO and WHO. What are healthy diets? Joint statement by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations and the World Health Organization (WHO). Geneva: World Health Organization and Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations; 2024. https://doi.org/10.4060/cd2223en

October 16: World Food Day 2024: Right to Foods for a Better Life and a Better Future – Leave No One Behind

“This year’s #WorldFoodDay theme, “Right to foods for a better life and a better future” spotlights the importance of diversity, nutrition, affordability, accessibility as well as the safety and sustainability of foods, raising awareness about how a greater diversity of nutritious foods should be available in our fields, fishing nets, markets, and on our tables, for the benefit of all. Today, hunger is often worsened by frequent weather changes, economic downturns and conflicts. World Food Day 2024 looks at solutions to ensure that all people have enough adequate and regular access to diverse, safe, nutritious food, leaving no one behind.”

Consult the World Food Day website to learn more about the theme and how to join the campaign.

Register here for the World Food Day ceremony

https://www.fao.org/world-food-day/events/global-events/en

World Food Day flagship events

Don’t miss out! Register now to join the live webcast of the World Food Day global ceremony on 16 October at 10:00 CET, and be part of the action at the Junior World Food Day School Assembly during the World Food Forum on 17 October at 10:00 CET.

September 29: International Day of Awareness on Food Loss and Waste: Stop food loss and waste. For the people. For the Planet.

September 29, 2024 is the fifth observance of the International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste (IDAFLW). This year’s theme is: ‘Climate Finance for Food Loss and Waste Reduction.’

This day highlights the critical need for financing to bolster efforts to reduce food loss and waste, contribute to achieving climate goals and advancing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

The world produces enough food to feed everyone, and yet millions suffer from hunger and malnutrition. Food loss and waste exacerbate this problem by reducing the amount of food available for consumption, thus contributing to food insecurity. Many of the most highly nutritious foods, such as fresh produce, fishery, and animal products are highly perishable and sustain high levels of food loss.

Reducing food losses and waste is essential in a world where the number of people affected by hunger has been slowly on the rise since 2014, and tons and tons of edible food are lost and/or wasted every day.

Globally, around 13.2 percent of food produced is lost between harvest and retail, while an estimated 19 percent of total global food production is wasted in households, in the food service and in retail all together.

Food loss and waste also translate into a substantial economic loss. This impacts not only producers but also consumers and nations, not to mention livelihoods and economic stability. Moreover, food waste in landfills contributes to 8 to 10 percent of total agrifood system emissions, impacting climate change and environmental sustainability.

Get involved!

On this International Day, visit the FAO and UNEP websites, consult its key messages and areas of action to solve food loss and waste, and spread the message through its material in different languages.

Global facts

Reducing food loss and waste is a climate solution, which countries and communities can employ to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Successfully doing so will require a significant increase in the quality and quantity of accessible climate finance.

IDAFLW 2024 – Key messages

A significant increase in the quality and quantity of accessible climate finance is needed to improve financing of projects and programs to reduce food loss and waste.

Investments that reduce food loss and waste contribute to improving food security, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enable healthy diets, and contribute to ensuring a future where food availability is not threatened by climate.

Equipping value chain stakeholders with climate smart funding can contribute to achieving significant incremental impacts in mitigating GHG emissions and building resilience.

Investing in the circular economy to reduce food loss and waste, contributes to reducing GHG emissions while generating returns for investors and benefits that outweigh the costs.

Countries must take action to reduce food loss and waste.

Profound change in the prevention and reduction of food loss and waste can only take place when countries develop and allocate sufficient human, organizational and institutional capacity to tackle the issues from production to consumption.

An inside look at Brazil’s push to end food waste (2024)

https://www.unep.org/news-and-stories/story/inside-look-brazils-push-end-food-waste

At age 19, Regina Tchelly left her small hometown in north-east Brazil and arrived in Rio de Janeiro with a dream: to become a famous chef.

When she got there, Tchelly, who was raised to never waste food, was saddened to see how often street vendors threw away good food.

That set Tchelly on a new culinary path. She began taking home discarded food from her work as a maid and created innovative recipes, like banana peel gingerbread and broccoli stalk quiche. That experience would eventually lead her to found Favela Orgânica. The organization has taught thousands of low-income individuals, street vendors and chefs how to waste less food, counter hunger and tackle the often devastating environmental effects that come with food waste.

“There should be no such thing as throwing away,” says Tchelly, now 42. “We’re throwing away our planet. We need to change our behaviour. We’re in a climate crisis. Here, people learn how healthy food and sustainable habits can benefit both our health and the planet.”

Tchelly is part of a growing movement in Brazil to cut down on food waste, which is quickly spreading around the world.

Learn more about Favela Orgánica in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil at:

https://towardsthehumancity.org/initiative-17-favela-organica-rio-de-janeiro/

Description

Favela Orgánica started in an informal settlement in Rio to encourage food sovereignty through healthy eating habits in low-income communities. Since 2011, Regina Tchelly, the founder of the initiative, organizes workshops to teach people how to prepare healthy meals using parts of the vegetables they would normally throw away (peels, stalks, etc.), reducing food waste and making them conscious of the benefits that organic agriculture brings to our health and to the environment.

The project also offers information on how to make compost and encourages people to create vegetable gardens in their houses.

Test Your Knowledge: Why Does Food Loss and Waste Matter:

https://www.stopfoodlosswaste.org/international-day/take-quiz

References

United Nations. International Day of Awareness on Food Loss and Waste Reduction
29 September. September 29, 2024. Available at: https://www.un.org/en/observances/end-food-waste-day

United Nations. An inside look at Brazil’s push to end food waste. March 27, 2024. Available at: https://www.unep.org/news-and-stories/story/inside-look-brazils-push-end-food-waste

Recording: Virtual Meeting: Fifth Observance of the International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste (IDAFLW) https://www.fao.org/webcast/home/en/item/6762/icode/

Reducing climate change impacts from the global food system through diet shifts: New study

If more than half of the currently overconsuming population starts eating a planet-friendly, healthy diet, including consuming less red meat, this could reduce emissions from global diets by as much as 17%, according to a new study published in Nature Climate Change.

More specifically, the authors of the study reported that:

“On the basis of detailed household-expenditure data, we evaluate the unequal distribution of dietary emissions from 140 food products in 139 countries or areas and further model changes in emissions of global diet shifts. Within countries, consumer groups with higher expenditures generally cause more dietary emissions due to higher red meat and dairy intake. Such inequality is more pronounced in low-income countries.

The present global annual dietary emissions would fall by 17% with the worldwide adoption of the EAT-Lancet planetary health diet, primarily attributed to shifts from red meat to legumes and nuts as principal protein sources. More than half (56.9%) of the global population, which is presently overconsuming, would save 32.4% of global emissions through diet shifts, offsetting the 15.4% increase in global emissions from presently underconsuming populations moving towards healthier diets.” (Li et al., 2024)

“Earlier this year, as many as 200 climate scientists from 48 countries expressed their views on this topic through a Harvard Law School survey, and 85% agreed that shifts to healthier diets are essential to limit global warming.” (Thambi, 2024)

“Healthy dietary choices can help you keep negative health conditions such as obesity and diabetes at bay but also help reduce the greenhouse gases causing our planet to warm up. Our food system contributes to about a third of global emissions, according to a study in Nature Food. So, our choices and decisions about what sits on our plates are essential for both our bodies and the planet.” (Thambi, 2024)

“Based on the scientific literature highlighting the importance of diet shifts toward healthy diets, there are two simple things you can start acting on today to help reduce the adverse impact of your diet on climate.” (Thambi, 2024) These include:

1. Reduce Overconsumption of Animal-based Proteins and Starchy Vegetables

Overconsumption is particularly high in the case of certain commodities, such as animal-based proteins and starchy food. For instance, North America— including the United States—currently consumes six times more beef and roughly two times more dairy, chicken, eggs and potatoes than needed for a healthy diet. The findings are based on a first-of-its-kind assessment by the EAT-Lancet report, published a few years ago by 37 world-leading health and climate scientists from 16 countries, who defined targets for healthy diets and sustainable food production.

“High consumption is more prevalent among the people in the higher expenditure brackets of countries, particularly for animal-based products. The new paper in Nature Climate Change shows that the greenhouse gas footprint of people in the higher expenditure groups of the US, Canada and Australia is up to three to seven times higher than the global average, much of which is from animal-based proteins. It also shows that if more than half of the people who are currently overconsuming start eating healthy diets, they could free up space for emissions of diets in under-consuming poorer countries—saving 32.4% of global emissions, offsetting the 15.4% increase in global emissions from presently under consuming countries.” (Thambi, 2024)

Lower-income groups in Sub-Saharan African countries underconsume some products, leading to nutrient deficiency of essential proteins and vitamins. It is important to note that this only applies to poorer income groups in those countries, as the above study shows that even in these countries, the high-expenditure groups could still be overconsuming and, therefore, have a higher emission footprint for animal-based foods than the global average.” (Thambi, 2024)

“Overconsumption of animal-based proteins is often driven by the misconception that any amount of protein benefits the body. Studies on clinical medicine led by researchers at the University of Cambridge found that high protein intake has adverse effects, such as raising blood insulin levels. When protein intake exceeds what the body requires for general repair functions, excess protein is converted by the liver into fat, according to recent research on protein and nutrition by the FAIRR Initiative, a London-based organization that works with global investors to define the material sustainability issues linked to intensive animal agriculture through research, tools, and engagement with food companies. This response is similar to the body’s response to excess consumption of things such as starch and sugar, the research report added.” (Thambi, 2024)

2. Make Flexitarian Diets Part Of Your Daily Meal Routine

A flexitarian diet—primarily plant-based but can optionally include modest amounts of fish, meat, and dairy foods—benefits your health and global efforts to cut warming. Evidence supports the benefits of a flexitarian diet for improving metabolic health and blood pressure, reducing the risk of Type 2 diabetes, and offsetting the adverse impacts of high animal-based diets on global emissions. For instance, research in Nature Food indicates that animal-based products contribute twice as much to local greenhouse gas emissions as plant-based food.

A flexitarian diet can also reduce the effort needed in other economic sectors to cut emissions to meet the 1.5-degree goal and limit global warming, according to a study in Science led by researchers from the Potsdam Institute of Climate Impact Research in Germany earlier this year.

So, next time you are at the supermarket, thinking about what to cook for your meal, remember that the small choices you make have significant impacts; what you buy matters for your health and the planet’s health. (Thambi, 2024)

References

Li, Y., He, P., Shan, Y. et al. Reducing climate change impacts from the global food system through diet shifts. Nature Climate Change. 2024;14: 943–953.

Thambi S. 2 simple changes to your diet can help your body and the planet. Forbes. August 28, 2024. Available at: https://www.forbes.com/sites/simithambi/2024/08/28/2-simple-changes-to-your-diet-can-help-your-body-and-the-planet/

Global food banks curbed 1.8 million tons of carbon emissions in 2023, by reducing food waste, report finds

In its latest impact report, the Global Foodbanking Network revealed that it provided food and groceries to 40 million people in 45 countries in 2023. The impact of these actions not only helped meet an increase in food relief demand, but it also reduced food waste emissions, avoiding around 1.8 million metric tons of carbon emissions last year.

The organization was able to rescue food from farms and wholesalers and distribute it to those seeking food relief. According to the report, the network distributed 654 million kilograms of food, or around 1.7 billion meals, in 2023, a 25% increase in food distribution compared to the previous year.

In announcing the results from its annual network survey, the Global Foodbanking Network highlighted the fact that 2023 was Earth’s hottest year ever recorded and emphasized the high number of extreme climate-related events around the world, including wildfires, droughts and floods.

According to the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction, humanitarian needs have reached record highs amid climate change and conflict, with one in every 33 people on Earth needing assistance to meet their needs, including hunger. (EcoWatch, 2024)

“The problem is not a shortage of food,” Douglas O’Brien, vice president of programs for the Global Foodbanking Network, wrote in a statement. “Rather it is a lack of affordable access to food for millions of vulnerable people in difficult circumstances who struggled to feed themselves and their families in 2023. But there is hope.” (Global Foodbanking Network, 2024)

To meet increasing demand for food relief, food banks looked for new ways to access more food to feed a higher number of people around the world. Food banks were able to form direct partnerships with farmers in order to provide fresh produce to those seeking food relief. This initiative was so successful for the network that fruits and vegetables became the largest volume of food distributed by the Global Foodbanking Network last year.

Further, by partnering with farmers, food banks increased agricultural recovery — or reducing the amount of produce lost on farms or after harvest — by 35% year-over-year, the network found.

Technology also played a more significant role to relieving hunger last year. According to the Global Foodbanking Network, technological initiatives, such as virtual food banks, made up 11% of distribution last year, up from 5% previously. Virtual food banks are able to quickly and directly connect businesses that have extra food products with food banks that can get the surplus food to their communities.

By collecting surplus food and rescuing produce from food loss on farms, food banks were able to feed more people while also mitigating climate-warming emissions. The report found that food banks within the Global Foodbanking Network helped avoid 1.8 million metric tons of emissions from food waste that would likely otherwise go to landfills. That equates to the impact of taking around 400,000 cars off the roads for one year.

O’Brien concluded, “The 2023 Network report shows that community-led food banks bring unique perspectives on the challenge of hunger, innovations such as virtual food banking, skills and capabilities to recover more food, and a wealth of knowledge and local support to the challenge of strengthening resilience, improving food security, and addressing climate change.”

See Figure 1: “Locally Led Action is Key” and Figure 2: “Impact in Action (2023)” for more information. (Global Foodbanking Network, 2024)

Figure 1: Locally-led Action is Key

Figure 2: Impact in Action (2023)

References

Bennett P. Global food banks curbed 1.8 million tons of carbon emissions in 2023, by reducing food waste, report finds. EcoWatch. August 14, 2024. Available at: https://www.ecowatch.com/global-food-banks-carbon-emissions-conservation.html

The Global Foodbanking Network. Food Banks Provided Vital Services to Meet Persistently High Demand in 2023. July 29, 2024. Available at: https://www.foodbanking.org/blogs/food-banks-provided-vital-services-to-meet-high-demand/

The Global Foodbanking Network. Impact Snapshot: 2023. Food Banks Respond to Sustained Demand for Food Relief. July 29 2024. Available at: https://www.foodbanking.org/our-impact/network-activity-report-2023/

Exploring consumers’ willingness to adopt climate-friendly diets: A collection of research studies

An informative editorial was published in the journal Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems on August 16, 2024. The editorial, written by Isabel Simoes Miguel, from Portugal, summarizes a collection of studies published as part of the research topic, “Exploring Consumers’ Willingness to Adopt Climate-Friendly Diets.”

“The urgency to mitigate climate change has propelled dietary shifts to the forefront of global sustainability efforts. Climate-friendly diets, characterized by reduced meat consumption, increased plant-based foods, and sustainable agricultural practices, present a significant opportunity for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This Research Topic, “Exploring consumers’ willingness to adopt climate-friendly diets,” aggregates a diverse range of studies that collectively advance our understanding of the factors influencing consumer behaviors toward sustainable food consumption. By examining these various dimensions, the contributing articles offer valuable insights into the multifaceted nature of dietary transitions and their broader implications.”

“The scoping review by Srinivasan et al., on the factors that facilitate consumer uptake of sustainable dietary patterns in Western countries provides a comprehensive overview of the existing literature. This foundational piece identifies key motivators and barriers, such as environmental awareness, health benefits, and socio-economic influences. The review underscores the complexity of dietary behavior change, highlighting that a confluence of individual, social, and structural factors is essential to promote sustainable consumption effectively…

Cultural narratives and social movements play pivotal roles in shaping consumer attitudes toward climate-friendly diets. The historical exploration of the Meatless Monday movement by Semba et al., trace its origins and growth, demonstrating how grassroots initiatives can galvanize public interest and participation in sustainable eating practices. This cultural shift is further exemplified in the study from China by Chen et al., which identify drivers of consumers’ intentions to adopt sustainable healthy dietary patterns, revealing the influence of cultural norms and government policies.” (Miguel, 2024)

“Effective communication strategies are critical for fostering dietary shifts toward sustainability. The cross-national study on communicating dietary shifts associated with a 1.5◦C climate scenario for Brazil, China, Sweden, and the UK by Lee et al. underscore the importance of tailored messages that resonate with diverse cultural contexts. Furthermore, the exploration of perceived determinants of food purchasing behavior by Pšurný et al. highlight the potential for targeted behavioral change interventions to promote sustainable consumption.” (Miguel, 2024)

“Consumer perceptions significantly impact the adoption of climate-friendly diets. The study on food producer labels by Zhu and Jin investigate whether food produced by farmers is perceived as healthier and more natural, and its influence on consumer choices. These findings suggest that labeling can play a crucial role in guiding consumer preferences toward sustainable options. Similarly, the research on the ambivalence and willingness to pay for suboptimal fruits and vegetables among organic consumers in Germany by Puteri et al. address the potential for reducing food waste through informed consumer decisions.”

“Innovative approaches to promoting sustainable diets are explored in several contributions. The study on adherence to the Mediterranean Diet through a bio-psycho-social and sociotype approach by Donini and Berry present an integrative model that incorporates psychological and social factors, offering a holistic perspective on dietary adherence. The investigation into vegetarian and vegan private label products in Slovakia by Košiˇciarová et al. identify emerging trends and challenges in sustainable food consumption, reflecting shifting consumer preferences. ” (Miguel, 2024)

“Emerging technologies and novel food sources also feature prominently in this Research Topic. The study on cultured proteins in Nordic countries by Klöckner et al. examine consumer attitudes toward lab-grown meat, milk, and fish, highlighting the attributes that could make these products attractive to different demographic groups. This research underscores the potential of alternative proteins to contribute to sustainable food systems.

The influence of retail environments on consumer behavior is explored in the study on supermarket consumers’ intentions toward climate-friendly food consumption by Emberger-Klein et al.. This research emphasizes the role of supermarkets in shaping consumer choices through product availability, marketing, and normative influences. The findings suggest that supermarkets can act as critical nodes.” (Miguel, 2024)

“Collectively, the articles in this Research Topic provide a nuanced understanding of the various factors influencing the adoption of climate-friendly diets. They highlight the interplay between individual choices, economic conditions, cultural narratives, and structural enablers. The insights gained from these studies are invaluable for policymakers, marketers, and advocates aiming to promote sustainable dietary practices.

In a broader context, these findings align with global sustainability goals, such as those outlined in the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and SDG 13 (Climate Action). By fostering a deeper understanding of the drivers and barriers to sustainable food consumption, this research contributes to the development of effective strategies for achieving these goals.

The transition to climate-friendly diets is a complex but necessary endeavor for addressing the global climate crisis. The diverse perspectives and insights presented in this Research Topic underscore the importance of a multi-faceted approach that considers economic, cultural, social, and psychological dimensions. As we continue to explore and understand the factors influencing consumer behavior, we can better design interventions and policies that support sustainable dietary transitions and ultimately contribute to a more sustainable and resilient food system.” (Miguel, 2024)

Reference:

Miguel IS. Editorial: Exploring consumers’ willingness to adopt climate-friendly diets. Front. Sustain. Food Syst. 2024;8:1448455. doi: 10.3389/fsufs.2024.1448455

Per- And Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS): What they are, where they are found, and how to limit exposure

Per – and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large group of synthetic chemicals characterized by a chain of carbon atoms bound to fluorine atoms through a process called fluorination.1 PFAS are a class of thousands of chemicals known or suspected to be endocrine-disrupting chemicals. According to the Endocrine Society and the International Pollutants Elimination Network (IPEN), “Endocrine disrupting chemicals are individual substances or mixtures that can interfere with our hormones’ natural functioning, leading to disease or even death”.2 PFAS are called “forever chemicals” because they don’t biodegrade. Instead, PFAS accumulate in the environment and our bodies over time.3 They are used to make consumer products nonstick, oil- and water-repellent, and resistant to temperature change. PFAS are used in many consumer products such as food packaging, nonstick cookware, water-repellent clothing, personal care products, and cosmetics (e.g., shampoo, dental floss, nail polish, eye makeup) as well as paints, sealants, stain-resistant carpets, upholstery, and other fabrics.3-5

Exposure to PFAS is associated with decreased infant and fetal growth as well as decreased antibody response to vaccines in both adults and children, according to a report by the U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM).6 Some of the most studied PFAS, such as PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid) and PFOS (perfluorooctane sulfonic acid), have been linked to serious health problems such as cancer, obesity, thyroid disease, high cholesterol, decreased fertility, pregnancy-induced hypertension, birth defects, liver damage, altered immune response, and hormone disruption.2,7,8,9 Studies are now finding similar health impacts from some of the newer PFAS. The NASEM has called for people at higher risk, such as pregnant women, young children, and the elderly, to be tested for a subset of PFAS chemicals.6

The American Heart Association (AHA) published a scientific statement on environmental exposures and pediatric cardiology, which stated: “ample evidence identified to date connecting EDCs [endocrine-disrupting chemicals] and childhood cardiovascular risk factors is especially remarkable given the many challenges of the field”.9 The AHA concluded there is “[a] need for clinicians, research scientists, and policymakers to focus more on the linkages of environmental exposures with cardiovascular conditions in children and adolescents.” Finally, in this scientific statement, it is reflected that improvements in reducing environmental exposures have not occurred in an equitable manner9 as exposures to endocrine-disrupting chemicals disproportionally affect racial minorities, low-income communities, and other disadvantaged groups.10 As such, environmental health is a core feature of social and environmental justice.9-10

Individuals are exposed to PFAS in numerous ways including:

Drinking water from PFAS-contaminated municipal sources or private wells
Eating fish caught from water contaminated by PFAS (PFOS, in particular)
Eating food products such as meat, dairy, and vegetables produced near locations where PFAS were used or made
Eating food packaged in material that contains PFAS
Accidentally swallowing or breathing contaminated soil or dust
Accidentally swallowing residue or dust from consumer products such as stain-resistant carpeting and water-repellent clothing, and
Ingestion of residue and dust from PFAS-containing products4

PFAS can enter a farm through water, soil additives, sewage sludge, and synthetic chemicals, such as pesticides. They are then taken up by plants and livestock and inhaled by farmworkers and farmers. Eventually, they end up in food and animal waste.1 See Figure 1 for an overview of how PFAS move through the agricultural landscape.

Figure 1. How PFAS Move Through the Agricultural Landscape¹

A recent study found that greater consumption of processed meats, tea, and food prepared outside of the home was associated with increased levels of PFAS in the body over time.11-13 Processed meats could be contaminated with PFAS during the manufacturing process.13-14 Some foods analyzed were only associated with higher PFAS levels when they were prepared outside the home. People who ate foods such as French fries or pizza prepared at restaurants typically showed increased levels of PFAS (forever chemicals) in their blood. The researchers suggested that food packaging was the problem.13 The authors of this study observed the strongest associations between PFAS concentrations (more specifically, PFOA, one of the most well-studied types of PFAS) and heightened pork and tea intake.11-13 These researchers noted that the association between high levels of PFAS and tea intake could be linked to tea bags treated with PFAS chemicals (forever chemicals) – although more research is needed.13,15

In 2023, a study analyzing 108 tea bag samples collected from the Indian market found that PFOS, PFHxS, and PFuNA (PFAS chemicals) “were abundantly present in the tea bag powder and tea bag material.” Ninety percent of the tea bags contained detectable concentrations of PFAS.15 The research team at the Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California is currently “conducting research on the extent of PFAS contamination in popular tea brands as well as a follow-up study on diet and PFAS levels in a multi-ethnic group of participants.”11

Switzerland’s Food Packaging Forum Foundation identified 68 PFAS ‘forever chemicals,’ in food packaging including plastic, paper, and coated metal packaging. Of the 68 identified PFAS compounds, 61 had been previously banned for use in food packaging. These researchers identified hazard data that was available for 57% of the PFAS compounds detected in food packaging.16-17 Based on their assessment, they concluded that “the data and knowledge gaps presented here support international proposals to restrict PFASs as a group, including their use on food contact materials, to protect human and environmental health”.16

On April 10, 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced new standards for the regulation of PFAS chemicals in drinking water. The limits, known as maximum contaminant levels, or MCL, are the highest level of contaminant allowed in drinking water. These limits consider health concerns and water treatment costs and feasibility. The new MCL require water treatment plants to lower the amount of these chemicals to safer levels than currently exist in water systems.21 The new rules require municipal water systems to track and monitor the levels of PFAS, provide $1 billion in funding available to local governments to test and treat public water systems, and help owners of private wells address PFAS contamination. Water officials have 5 years to comply with the new limits.3 Public health advocates say the rules are an important first step, but are limited in their impact on the broader PFAS crisis. The new rules address only six compounds while about 15,000 PFAS exist, and the vast majority remain unregulated or unstudied. Drinking water represents only about 20% of human exposure, the EPA estimates, and diet is most likely a greater source of exposure.22

HOW TO LIMIT EXPOSURE TO PFAS CHEMICALS

Filter your tap water. Reverse osmosis filters are the most effective. To remove a specific contaminant such as PFAS from drinking water, consumers should choose a water filtration device that is independently certified to remove a contaminant by a recognized lab.23 Reputable third-party testing organizations include NSF, formerly known as, the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF), Water Quality Association (WQA), International Association of Plumbing & Mechanical Officials (IAPMO), UL Solutions, CSA Group, and Intertek (ETL). For a filter that can remove PFAS, look for one with the code NSF/ANSI 53, or NSF/ANSI 58 for reverse osmosis systems, followed by the manufacturer’s claim that the product can remove PFAS.23 NSF has a list of recommended filters available at: nsf.org. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has also published a guide with recommendations on the most effective water filters for reducing PFAS, which is available here: EWG’s guide to PFAS water filters.

There are no standards for PFAS in bottled water.4 Save money, skip the plastic, and drink filtered tap water instead of bottled water.

Food, food packaging, and tea bags. PFAS compounds can bioaccumulate in crops, fish, and livestock.1 PFAS are used to make food packaging such as paper plates, bowls, bags, some plastic packaging, sandwich wrappers, and other types of packaging to make them water- and oil-resistant. A recent study found higher PFAS levels in certain foods prepared in restaurants such as pizza and French fries.13 To reduce your exposure to PFAS:

Skip microwave popcorn – pop your own popcorn instead – either with a hot air popper or on the stove

Limit consumption of highly processed meats (e.g. hotdogs)

Limit food packaged in paper board and paper-based takeout packaging such as pizza

Limit fast foods prepared at restaurants such as pizza and French fries

Prepare home-cooked meals more often5,13

Use uncoated paper products and products made from materials other than paper, such as bamboo24

To store food – at home and away from home, use glass instead of plastic containers.24-26 Compostable containers, although plastic-free, may not be PFAS-free.24-25 Look for compostable packaging that is BPI-certified.27-28

Tea bags treated with PFAS (forever chemicals) may be associated with increased levels of PFAS in the body over time, although more research is needed.13,29 If this issue concerns you, purchase loose-leaf tea or prepare your own tea at home.

For more information on how to limit PFAS exposure, visit Toxic-Free Future at: toxicfreefuture.org.

Cookware. If a pot or pan becomes damaged, consider a replacement. Through repeated use, non-stick cookware begins to scratch and chip. Use kitchen cookware free from PFAS including stainless steel, cast iron, ceramic, and glass. Carefully choose cookware. Beware of nonstick cookware that claims it’s free of PFOA, a PFAS that has been phased out. The cookware may have just-as-toxic replacement chemicals.5,30

Continue to breastfeed your baby. Research suggests that the benefits of breastfeeding far outweigh the risks of potential PFAS exposure. Due to the many benefits of breastfeeding, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommend that most nursing individuals continue to breastfeed.4 The focus should be on reducing maternal exposure.30 Infants can be exposed to PFAS from drinking formula that is mixed with PFAS-contaminated water.4,30 To address this issue, use filtered tap water when preparing infant formula.

Check fish, game, and agricultural advisories. PFAS have been widely detected in locally caught freshwater fish in the United States. Check your local or state and environmental quality departments for fish or hunting advisories.4,30 “National testing done by the U.S. EPA shows that nearly all fish in U.S. rivers and streams and the Great Lakes, have detectable PFAS, primarily PFOS.” As such, “This is an example of social and environmental injustice facing communities that depend on catching fish for cultural practices or economic necessities”. 31

If you consume seafood, do so as part of a balanced diet. U.S. FDA testing shows that seafood purchased at grocery stores have significantly lower levels of PFAS than self-caught freshwater fish.31 “Though PFAS are more dilute in ocean water than they are in fresh water, marine life can also be contaminated”.1 In a recent study, scientists analyzed levels of 26 different forms of PFAS in salt and freshwater fish, including cod, haddock, lobster, salmon, scallops, shrimp, and tuna. They found that shrimp and lobster had the highest concentrations of PFAS, with averages ranging up to 1.74 and 3.30 nanograms per gram of flesh, respectively, for certain PFAS compounds. Concentrations fell to less than one gram of PFAS per gram for other types of seafood.32 Based on these findings, the authors concluded, “high seafood consumers may be exposed to PFAS concentrations that potentially pose a health risk.” They further stated that their findings support the “future development of environmental and health-based policies to protect people from exposure to PFAS found in commonly consumed seafood”.32

Clothing, textiles, and dust. Purchase clothing items from companies that have made commitments to not use PFAS in their products. According to the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), “The best way to find out whether your item of clothing is PFAS-free is to check the brand’s website to see if it has announced that it has eliminated PFAS from its clothing or labeled clothing lines as PFAS-free”.28 If no information is available, contact customer service to ask directly. Review the brands covered on NRDC’s PFAS apparel scorecard. Also, you can check out PFAS Central, a project of the Green Science Policy Institute, which offers a helpful list of products and brands that state they offer PFAS-free outdoor gear, apparel, and other products.28

Avoid waterproofing stain-proofing treatments, unless advertised as free of PFAS. Vacuum frequently using a vacuum fitted with a HEPA filter to eliminate household dust that may contain PFAS.4-5,33 Opening windows can help filter out dust as well.33 While these are important steps consumers can take to limit exposure to PFAS, scientists believe they aren’t enough to control PFAS contamination. Their pervasiveness in the environment makes it impossible to avoid exposure, according to Dr. Carmen Messerlian, a Professor of Reproductive Environmental Epidemiology at Harvard’s T.H. Chan School of Public Health, who studies PFAS. Dr. Messerlian reflects that: “Even someone like me, a scientist and a mother who cares about human health, can’t avoid PFAS chemicals. I can chip away and make choices in my day that reduce my exposure. But I’m looking at my fridge right now, and I can tell you most of my foods have come in contact with PFAS. We should regulate the entire class of chemicals and stop companies from manufacturing them to begin with, rather than try to regulate how much is in our water”.33 For additional information, visit: A Consumer’s Guide to PFAS: Side-Stepping ‘Forever Chemicals’ In Your Daily Life:

A Consumer’s Guide to PFAS: Side-Stepping ‘Forever Chemicals’ In Your Daily Life

TELL CONGRESS TO PROTECT FARMERS AND THE PUBLIC FROM PFAS

“The use of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in industrial and commercial applications has led to widespread contamination of water and biosolids used for fertilizer…posing a significant threat to the biosphere, public health, gardens, parks, and agricultural systems. Farmers and rural communities, in particular, bear the brunt of this contamination, as it affects their drinking water, soil quality, and livestock health.”34 Tell Congress that the Farm Bill must include the Relief for Farmers Hit with PFAS Act and the Healthy H2O Act to protect farmers and rural communities from PFAS contamination. “Led by [Representative] Chellie Pingree (D-ME), U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), and Susan Collins (R-ME), a bipartisan and bicameral bill—the Relief for Farmers Hit with PFAS Act—has been introduced to provide assistance and relief to those affected by PFAS. A second bill, the Healthy H2O Act, introduced by Representatives Pingree and David Rouzer (R-NC) and Senators Baldwin and Collins, provides grants for water testing and treatment technology directly to individuals and non-profits in rural communities.”34

Read more below about how to protect farmers’ health against PFAS contamination through passage of The Relief for Farmers Hit With PFAS Act and support the transition to producing alternative crops, including different types of grains, fruit, and root vegetables.

Op-ed: PFAS contamination endangers farmers’ health — a new federal program would empower them to address the crisis

https://www.ehn.org/maine-farm-pfas-2668601304.html

Federal leaders must step in and help farmers across the country navigate this pollution crisis.

“When dozens of Maine farmers discovered high levels of PFAS in their soil and water, our state’s agricultural community found itself on the verge of crisis.

These “forever chemicals” pose a grave risk to the food supply and to the farmers and their families working on contaminated land.

Farmers, advocates and leaders from across the state came together to develop a statewide response to PFAS contamination. Today, Maine is the first state to launch an emergency relief fund for impacted farmers and ban the use of sludge-based fertilizers that contain these dangerous chemicals. Maine’s response has reversed a hopeless situation for so many: of the 59 farms where PFAS was initially discovered, nearly all were able to weather a safe transition with this safety net in place. Now Congress is considering a federal program modeled after Maine’s emergency relief fund. The Relief for Farmers Hit With PFAS Act would authorize grants for states to provide financial assistance to affected farmers, expand monitoring and testing, remediate PFAS, or even help farmers relocate.

While Maine was the first to confront this problem head-on, the consequences of PFAS contamination extend far beyond this state. For decades, many states have encouraged farmers to spread sewage sludge on fields as fertilizer. Recently, scientists discovered that it contained dangerous chemicals that linger in the environment indefinitely – yet some states haven’t caught up and still push to spread the sludge. Testing for these chemicals is the only way to know if a farm is contaminated, but in the absence of federal guidance or regulations, few states are regularly doing so.

Without adequate monitoring, farmers not only risk financial ruin, but irreversible damage to their health. When PFAS seeps into a farm’s land and water, exposure poses serious health risks for anyone drinking contaminated water or consuming contaminated products, including kidney cancer, liver disease, thyroid disorders and autoimmune disorders. It’s still too early to predict the exact long-term outcomes, but we know it’s only a matter of time until research catches up to reality. One farmer with recently reported blood levels of PFAS at 3,500 parts per billion –175 times the level that the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine says poses a serious risk – after years of drinking contaminated water on his farm. The previous owner of the farmland died of a cancer that we now believe may have been PFAS-linked.

Without adequate monitoring, farmers not only risk financial ruin, but irreversible damage to their health.

If we don’t plan for the future, more lives are at stake. If more states don’t begin to test their farmland, this crisis could continue affecting far more communities than we currently know. The good news is, once a farm is tested, there are options for farmers to move forward safely. Overhauling farms to produce different types of grains, fruit or root vegetables can significantly lower the risk of concentrating the chemicals. These transitions are safe, but expensive, and small businesses can’t afford this burden alone. That’s why a safety net is needed – more specifically, a safety net that gives farmers the healthcare and financial support they need.”35

CONCLUSION

Per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are present in a wide range of consumer products including food, water, and food packaging. They bioaccumulate in our bodies over time and may be associated with serious health problems. By taking the above action steps, you can reduce your exposure to PFAS. However, there is a need for ongoing monitoring, improved testing, and enhanced government regulation to address the widespread occurrence of PFAS contamination in the environment.

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19. Ackerman Grunfeld, D., Gilbert, D., Hou, J. et al. Underestimated burden of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in global surface waters and groundwaters. Nature Geoscience. 2024; https://doi.org/10.1038/s41561-024-01402-8

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21. Amarelo M. EPA sets bold new limits on ‘forever chemicals’ in drinking water. Environmental Working Group. April 10, 2024. Web site. https://www.ewg.org/news-insights/news-release/2024/04/epa-sets-bold-new-limits-forever-chemicals-drinking-water?utm_source=newsletter&utm_campaign=202404PFASNews&utm_medium=email&utm_content=PFAS&emci=3e0dd8ec-51f7-ee11-aaf0-7c1e52017038&emdi=460dd8ec-51f7-ee11-aaf0-7c1e52017038&ceid=1301962 Accessed April 10, 2024.

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25. University of Toronto. New study finds toxic PFAS ‘forever chemicals’ in Canadian fast-food packaging. Phys.Org. March 28, 2023. Web site. https://phys.org/news/2023-03-toxic-pfas-chemicals-canadian-fast-food.html Accessed April 10, 2024.

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27. BPI Certification. North America’s Leading Authority on Compostable Products & Packaging. Undated. Web site. https://bpiworld.org/ Accessed April 10, 2024.

28. Ginty MM. “Forever Chemicals” Called PFAS Show Up in Your Food, Clothes and Home. Natural Resources Defense Fund; Washington DC; April 10, 2024. Web site. https://www.nrdc.org/stories/forever-chemicals-called-pfas-show-your-food-clothes-and-home Accessed April 10, 2024.

29. Bear-McGuiness L. From PFAS to Microplastics, What Might Be Leaking Out of Your Teabag? Technology Networks, Applied Sciences. February 19, 2024. Web site. https://www.technologynetworks.com/applied-sciences/articles/from-pfas-to-microplastics-what-might-be-leaking-out-of-your-teabag-383985 Accessed February 20, 2024.

30. Boston’s Children’s Hospital. Pediatric Environmental Health Specialty Unit (PEHSU) PFAS Food Factsheet. Boston, MA; February 2024. Web site. https://www.childrenshospital.org/sites/default/files/2024-02/PFAS-Fact-Sheet-2-2-2024.pdf Accessed February 15, 2024.

31. Barbo N, Stoiber T, Naidenko OV, Andrews DQ. Locally caught freshwater fish across the United States are likely a significant source of exposure to PFOS and other perfluorinated compounds. Environ Res. 2023;220:115165.

32. Crawford, K.A., Gallagher, L.G., Giffard, N.G. et al. Patterns of seafood consumption among New Hampshire residents suggest potential exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. Expo Health. 2024; https://doi.org/10.1007/s12403-024-00640-w

33. McFall-Johnsen M. Hazardous ‘forever chemicals’ in water, food, and air won’t disappear with new EPA rules. But 6 simple tactics can reduce your exposure at home. Business Insider. September 17, 2022. Updated April 10, 2024. Web site. https://www.businessinsider.com/reduce-hazardous-forever-chemicals-exposure-pfas-at-home-2022-9 Accessed April 10, 2024.

34. Beyond Pesticides. Tell Congress To Protect Farmers and the Public from PFAS. Undated. Web site: https://secure.everyaction.com/w0Cs4OrV4kW1YJEBJIcy3g2?contactdata=8NN42zW7eVr4o%2fn%2fx3Fg1Lr1iX8qBp5W2q4JkyUsSV7+EEwyUPq8V5VvhSAmM4ZpSmoHSOYUcxy%2fxhNpheec3MstRv401VK8kjGlrGYLIBNN9TeQlQN7F8TvJPP0pzFvsJGTalhC0VsM36b1iKIdrd1Uu3FL1%2fypvk8zVLtBOyY9FqZu%2fdKboppnPWMKNea33HBhcidaRI6ryZAvObZFww%3d%3d&emci=fd171530-07cd-ee11-85f9-002248223794&emdi=9f404b35-a5cd-ee11-85f9-002248223794&ceid=10613815 Accessed May 11, 2024.

35. Alexander S. Op-ed: PFAS contamination endangers farmers’ health — a new federal program would empower them to address the crisis. Environmental Health News. June 26, 2024. Available at: https://www.ehn.org/maine-farm-pfas-2668601304.html