Paper Straws Might Not Be Safer Or Greener Than Plastic Ones. Contain Toxic “Forever Chemicals” Raise Alarming Environmental and Health Concerns. Belgian Study Finds.
In a startling revelation, the seemingly virtuous paper drinking straws, touted as eco-friendly alternatives to their plastic counterparts, have been unmasked as potential health hazards, harbouring insidious “forever chemicals.” A groundbreaking Belgian study has sent shockwaves through environmental circles, exposing the hidden dangers lurking within our beloved paper straws.
Researchers have issued an alarming warning after unearthing a disturbing truth: these paper straws may not be the planet-saving solution they were believed to be. Instead, they contain long-lasting and potentially toxic chemicals, challenging the very essence of their eco-friendly image.

Unmasking the Silent Threat
Long-lasting “forever chemicals,” scientifically known as poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), notorious for their capacity to endure for millennia, have been discovered in a staggering 18 out of 20 brands of paper straws, according to the Belgian research team. This revelation strikes a resounding blow to the prevailing belief that paper straws represent a superior alternative for our environment.
The study, the first of its kind in Europe and only the second globally examined 39 different straw brands, encompassing various materials such as paper, bamboo, glass, stainless steel, and plastic. It meticulously tested each type for the presence of PFAS, synthetic chemicals with a history of raising health concerns.
The Alarming Reach of PFAS:
The results were alarming: PFAS was prevalent in the majority of straws analyzed, with paper and bamboo straws being the worst offenders. An astonishing 90% of paper straws contained these toxic chemicals. Notably, PFAS was also detected in four out of five bamboo straw brands, three out of four plastic straw brands, and two out of five glass straw brands.
The study’s findings cast a grim shadow over the pervasive use of paper straws. The presence of PFAS in almost every brand of paper straw suggests that these chemicals are likely being used as water-repellent coatings, further exacerbating the environmental and health risks.
The Unseen Dangers Within
It’s crucial to note that the study did not explore whether PFAS could leach from the straws into liquids, leaving the potential health impacts of consuming PFAS-laden drinks uncharted territory.
Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), one of the most common PFAS, has been globally banned since 2020 due to safety concerns. The study also uncovered other PFAS variants, including trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) and trifluoromethanesulfonic acid (TFMS), which are highly water-soluble and could potentially leach into beverages, adding to the complexity of this issue.
Balancing the Risks
While the researchers deemed the PFAS concentrations in straws to be low and posing a limited immediate risk to human health, they issued a stern warning. PFAS compounds are known to accumulate in the body over time, potentially leading to unforeseen health consequences.

PFAS are ubiquitous in various everyday products, from outdoor gear to non-stick cookware, rendering them resistant to water, heat, and stains. Their stubborn persistence in the environment, earning them the ominous moniker “forever chemicals,” has raised serious concerns.
It appears that Stainless steel plastic straws are a far safer alternative than their paper-based counterparts based on the study.
The Global Impact
The health risks associated with PFAS are substantial, spanning lower vaccine response, lower birth weight, thyroid disorders, elevated cholesterol levels, liver damage, and kidney and testicular cancers. For pregnant women, exposure to PFAS could reduce fertility and elevate blood pressure. Their children may face developmental issues like low birth weight, early puberty, and an increased cancer risk.
In a startling twist, the severity of COVID-19 infections was found to be exacerbated by PFAS exposure in a 2020 Danish study, underscoring the pervasive influence of these chemicals.
A Wider Ecological Concern
The detrimental effects of PFAS aren’t limited to humans. Exposure to PFAS has been linked to reduced reproductive capabilities in birds, tumour development, and disrupted immune and kidney functions in various animal species.
To make matters worse, PFAS have infiltrated the environment to such an extent that both humans and wildlife find it nearly impossible to avoid exposure. Sources of exposure include contaminated air, tainted food and water, and even skin contact with PFAS-laden dust and particles.
A Glimmer of Hope
However, there is a glimmer of hope for those concerned about exposure to PFAS. Stainless steel straws emerged unscathed in the Belgian study, with no detectable levels of PFAS. Yet, it’s essential to remain vigilant, as stainless steel straws may expose users to other harmful substances depending on the quality of the straw.

A Call for Reassessment
In light of these startling findings, perhaps the most prudent course of action for now is to consider eschewing straws altogether whenever possible. The once-celebrated paper straws have unveiled their toxic secret, prompting us to reassess our choices for the sake of our health and the environment.
The Struggle Against Single-Use Plastics
This revelation has serious implications for the ongoing global battle against single-use plastics. Many countries, including the UK and Belgium, have banned single-use plastic products, including plastic straws, in a bid to reduce environmental pollution. In response, plant-based straws have emerged as popular alternatives, often promoted as sustainable and eco-friendly options.
The Challenge of Sustainability
However, the presence of PFAS in plant-based straws challenges the sustainability narrative. Consumers are now faced with the perplexing reality that their efforts to make environmentally conscious choices might inadvertently introduce toxins into their lives.
The study’s findings underscore the complexity of the sustainability challenge, highlighting the need for thorough research and informed decision-making. As we navigate the path toward a more environmentally responsible future, it is imperative to consider the unintended consequences of our choices.
A Call for Vigilance
In conclusion, the Belgian study on paper straws has unveiled a concerning reality. While the push to eliminate single-use plastics is a commendable endeavour, it must be executed with careful consideration of the alternatives. But at this point, it appears that plastic straws are a far safer alternative than their paper-based counterparts based on the study.
Consumers are urged to remain vigilant, prioritize their health, and consider the broader environmental impact of the products they choose. The once-beloved paper straw, now exposed as a potential carrier of “everlasting chemicals” serves as a stark reminder that sustainability requires a nuanced approach and a continuous commitment to protecting our planet.