Human engineered, highly toxic chemicals called Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are known as forever chemicals because they never break down or degrade. These chemicals make their way from everyday products such as packaging materials, cleaning products, stain-resistant fabrics, and food containers into our water and food sources. From there, PFAS enters our bloodstream. The bioaccumulation of these toxic chemicals in our bloodstreams can cause an increased risk of cancer, liver damage, thyroid disease, and diminishes the effectiveness of vaccines and the development of fetuses. Studies show that these forever chemicals are found in 99.9% of people in the United States, (Pallone, 2019). This issue must be addressed because it is an under-publicized threat to society and our community.

A non-profit research organization, the Environmental Working Group, conducted a study in 2017 to see if PFAS chemicals were present in the containers, wrappers, and boxes of multiple fast-food restaurants across America (Andrew, 2017). They found that 77.7% of restaurants' food-contact paper and paperboard tested positive for fluorine (Andrews, 2017). Fluorine presence is likely an indicator of PFAS presence (Andrew, 2017). PFAS presence on food-contact paper is dangerous as it can transfer into the food you eat, and subsequently into your bloodstream (Andrew, 2017). One of the fast-food chains tested was Chick-Fil-A. Of their paperboards and contact papers tested, 80% showed the likely presence of PFAS (Andrews, 2017). Yet Chick-Fil-A, among all other fast-food restaurants, does not address this health concern in any way.

Take action and sign the petition for Chick-Fil-A to be transparent with their consumers on how their packaging can impact their health, and demand for them to transition to PFAS free food contact materials. Take ownership over your health today and help us garner support for this hidden threat.