Scientists Advise Only Limited Use Of Fluorochemicals In Food Packaging

Scientists in Denmark and elsewhere have issued a statement urging only essential use of fluorochemicals in food production and other applications. Fluorochemicals, applied  mainly as water-resistant coatings on food packaging, are difficult to break down and tend to accumulate in humans and the environment. They have been linked to harmful health effects such as cancer and fertility problems. Alternatives to fluorochemicals are being tested, but scientists urge that producers and suppliers investigate them thoroughly and make existing data on chemical and toxicological properties publically available.