The Unintended Consequences of Paper Straws
Recent research has revealed that paper straws, once thought to be an eco-friendly alternative to plastic, may contain harmful 'forever chemicals' known as PFAS, which are not easily biodegradable and could pose health and environmental risks. The study conducted by the University of Antwerp found PFAS in various straw materials, with stainless steel being the exception. These findings suggest that even eco-friendly products can contribute to pollution if they contain PFAS. The researchers recommend using stainless steel straws or avoiding straws altogether to minimize potential harm.