PFAS in Products Means Testing is Crucial for Consumer Confidence

Pet food. Steak. Dental floss. Winter jackets. Lipstick. Fishing tackle. Most of us use these everyday products without considering if they may pose health concerns. But consumers are more aware than ever that there are “forever chemicals” (scientifically known as Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances, or PFAS) in products and foods they purchase and consume. Companies, too, are now being proactive to get ahead of coming regulations and scrutinize the components in the supply chain that help assemble their products so they can sell safer, PFAS-free offerings.

That’s where Battelle, the world’s largest independent, nonprofit research and development organization, comes in. Invented in the 1940s, there are thousands of different PFAS chemicals, and some are extremely useful and durable. But exposure to other members of the PFAS family are dangerous to human health and the environment. Determining their presence in consumer goods requires extensive and previously unavailable expertise.

Through internal investments and expertise, Battelle has developed PFAS testing capabilities as well as comprehensive vulnerability assessments to help companies understand and mitigate their PFAS risk. Battelle experts also invented the PFAS Annihilator and spun out a company called Revive Environmental that is in the field to completely destroy the unwanted chemicals in such streams as industrial wastewater, landfill leachate and firefighting foams.

"We are not just testing for PFAS; we are helping companies understand their entire PFAS landscape, from supply chain to final product,” said PFAS Business Line Director Amy Dindal. “Our goal is to provide data that empowers companies to make informed decisions about their products and practices."

Battelle’s work to identify, isolate and destroy PFAS supports a variety of industries and aids clients in finding alternatives for PFAS in their products.

Battelle has recently:

• Expanded testing capabilities: Battelle is responding to an increasing number of inquiries from companies seeking to understand PFAS content in their products. This includes a diverse range of items such as food, personal protective equipment, clothing, and more. Inquires typically lead to tailored analytical approaches leveraging Battelle’s adaptability and technical capabilities.
• Created comprehensive risk mitigation: Beyond testing, Battelle is committed to helping companies understand where their risks lie and how to mitigate them. This holistic approach is aimed at providing a full package of services that goes beyond mere detection to include detailed vulnerability assessments and strategic mitigation plans.
• Building innovative techniques and technologies: Battelle has innovative methodologies for extracting and analyzing PFAS compounds from a variety of materials. This expertise is backed by years of experience and a deep understanding of complex product formulations.

About Battelle

Every day, the people of Battelle apply science and technology to solving what matters most. At major technology centers and national laboratories around the world, Battelle conducts research and development, designs and manufactures products, and delivers critical services for government and commercial customers. Headquartered in Columbus, Ohio since its founding in 1929, Battelle serves the national security, health and life sciences, and energy and environmental industries. For more information, visit www.battelle.org.

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