A
Solution that Didn't Stick
It’s
been years since I last used a PFAS-coated
nonstick pan. I gave them up after reading one
too many reports about
the serious health impacts of these synthetic
chemicals that are widely used in consumer
products that resist oil, stains, and water.
Honestly, I’ve never looked back; I’ve been more
than satisfied with my cast iron alternatives,
which are nonstick in their own right.
Needless
to say, I was sorely disappointed earlier this
week when Governor Gavin Newsom vetoed
legislation that would have helped protect
cookware users across California. SB 682, which
the state legislature passed in September, was
set to ban “intentionally added” PFAS from
cookware, as well as from food packaging, dental
floss, children’s products, cleaning products,
and ski wax. In doing so, it would have reduced
direct product-related exposure to these
“forever chemicals” that do not break down
naturally, as well as manufacturing-related PFAS
pollution that contaminates our shared water,
soil, and air.
Big
Cookware wasn’t having it. The industry lobbied
hard against the bill, claiming concern over
consumer choice and affordability. Several
high-profile chefs joined the fray, pointing, in
all seriousness, to things like the difficulty
of cooking omelets and crepes in “regular” pans.
In the end, the industry won.
The
defeat stings. A PFAS cookware ban seems like
such low-hanging fruit. In a world where many
solutions are complicated, this one offered a
simple way to reduce the flow of harmful
chemicals into our bodies and the environment.
It also comes at a time when we’re seeing rising
rates of cancer among young people, which
research increasingly suggests could be related
to exposure to environmental pollutants. Add to
that the sheer pettiness of some of the industry
arguments — ahem, omelets — and it’s hard not to
feel let down.
But
I haven’t given up all hope. Several other
states, including Minnesota, Colorado, and
Vermont, have already banned PFAS in cookware.
Several more are currently considering bans.
Once enough of our elected leaders stand up
against the use of these toxic chemicals, the
industry will have no choice but to meet the
market where it’s headed.
I
just wish California could have helped get us
there
sooner. |
