Non-stick cookware or waterproof clothing are common items in most of Taiwan’s households, but most people don’t think about whether certain chemicals sometimes used in their production can affect our health.
The compound perfluorohexane sulfonic acid used in non-stick pan and cooking utensil coatings has just been listed by the United Nations as a toxic chemical. In order to comply with international conventions, the Taiwan Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will also be listing it as harmful and prohibited for use except for research, experimentation, and educational purposes.
Poison expert and doctor Tzung-Hai Yen (顏宗海) explains that the substance interferes with our endocrine functions. If overexposed to this compound, people may be at risk of thyroid dysfunction and related cancers.
Perfluorohexane sulfonic acid is commonly found in items such as food wrapping paper, flame retardant foam, waterproof clothing, and detergents for electronics. However, it is now strictly prohibited in Taiwan and no industry is permitted to use it.
EPA Department Director Hsieh Yen-ju (謝燕儒) says that the human body has difficulty discharging this substance after inhaling it. He says he hopes the ban is effective as soon as possible to provide the public with a safe and non-toxic environment.