Paper Straws Contain More Dangerous Forever Chemicals and Their Plastic Counterparts, Research Shows

Paper straws are touted as more environmentally friendly than plastic ones. However, this may not be the case. In a recent study, Belgian researchers tested 39 brands of straws, including plastic, paper, bamboo, glass, and stainless steel. They found that the majority of the paper straws contained synthetic chemicals, also known as “forever chemicals,” because they can’t be absorbed by the body or the environment. 

What are Forever Chemicals?

“Straws made from plant-based materials, such as paper and bamboo, are often advertised as being more sustainable and eco-friendly than those made from plastic,” said Thimo Groffen, PhD, author of the study and an environmental scientist at the University of Antwerp. “However, the presence of PFAS in these straws means that’s not necessarily true.” 

PFAS, or poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances, are man-made chemicals used to manufacture consumer goods all over the world. They are not biodegradable, meaning they linger in the environment without being repurposed by the nature around it. It may also linger in the human body and build up over time.

Paper Straws and PFAS

The study authors purchased 39 brands of straws in Belgium from fast-food chains, drug stores, grocery stores, toy stores, and online stores. They discovered that 69% of the brands had PFAS. Moreover, 90% of paper straws had these chemicals, along with 80% of bamboo straws, 75% of plastic straws, and 40% of glass straws. The brand with the highest concentration of PFAS were paper straws. 

It was unclear if the forever chemicals can seep from the straws into the beverage, although the researchers expressed concern over this possibility. But putting health effects aside, the study raises the question if paper straws are truly as sustainable as people believe.

Read More: Is Your Teabag Exposing You to Microplastics? Yes, According to Research

The Purpose of PFAS

The researchers reported that the straws overall contained low amounts of PFAS. However, they theorized that bamboo and paper straws had higher levels due to contaminated soils. Alternatively, the chemicals may be added to the paper straws to make them water-repellent.

PFAS have been used to make products that resist grease and water, like nonstick cookware and stain-resistant fabrics, as well as certain types of firefighting foams and cosmetics. Although PFAS have been phased out of production in the United States, other countries can still use them, leading to Americans unknowingly purchasing items with PFAS. “It is also possible for very small amounts of PFAS to enter foods through food packaging, processing, and cookware,” according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. 

Potential Effects of PFAS

During manufacturing, PFAS can affect soil, water, and air, and since they don’t break down, they stay in the environment. Small amounts are not dangerous. But with repeated exposure over time, some PFAS can build up in the bodies of people and animals. Scientists have linked these chemicals to negative health effects through animal studies, so more research is needed to understand how PFAS exposure affects the human body. 

However, peer-reviewed studies have shown that high levels of exposure can lead to an increased risk of some cancers, reduced immune response, decreased fertility, developmental delays in children, and hormonal interference.

Steel Over Paper Straws

“The presence of PFAS in paper and bamboo straws shows they are not necessarily biodegradable,” said Groffen in the press release. Fortunately, for people who can’t imagine smoothies and iced coffees without straws, there is a simple solution. “We did not detect any PFAS in stainless steel straws, so I would advise consumers to use this type of straw,” said Groffen, “or just avoid using straws at all.” 

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