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I have just Googled "PFAS compostable" and unfortunately it does not seem uncommon... For instance [1] (from the UK): "Surprisingly, the highest levels of PFAS
by mytailorisrich 3y ago
I have just Googled "PFAS compostable" and unfortunately it does not seem uncommon... For instance [1] (from the UK):
"Surprisingly, the highest levels of PFAS (by an order of magnitude!) were consistently reported in moulded fibre compostable, ‘eco-friendly’ takeaway containers; the type we’re told are sustainable alternatives to plastic."
Also, I thought pizza boxes were just cardboard, especially since they are single use and for a short time, only.
[1] https://www.fidra.org.uk/chemicals-pollution/pfas-in-compostable-packaging/ https://www.fidra.org.uk/chemicals-pollution/pfas-in-compost...
- gilleain 3y agoHow bizarre. Great link, as it also goes into the lack of centres to actually carry out composting in the UK (at scale). However it doesn't go into _why_ there are PFAS in 'compostable' materials. At a wild guess, they are too fragile without them?
- JohnFen 3y agoThis is only a guess, but... perhaps waterproofing? Did they replace plastic coatings with PFAS?
- Ekaros 3y agoHmm, I'm not certain, but it seems that fluorine applied to plastic coatings can make them better against oxygen and moisture and probably oils. This process then forms PFAS.
- kayfox 3y agoPFAS is used in the inside coating on "compostable" cardboard takeout boxes. Its also used in those compostable paper straws. The coating is to prevent moisture from damaging the container. I have no idea why someone would put it in pizza boxes. I honestly think we should rethink some of these compostable things, PLA would work better for straws and packaging for cold food and beverages, and there have been wax coated cardboard containers for both hot and cold food for a while.