Another source of toxic PFAS in Wisconsin: Toilet paper?

By Jonah Beleckis | Wisconsin NPR | May 3, 2023

Read the full article by Jonah Beleckis (Wisconsin NPR)

"When you flush your toilet, sending waste to a nearby sewage treatment system, you might also be contributing toxic chemicals to the local watershed.

University of Florida scientists recently studied 21 toilet paper brands from around the world and found traces of PFAS in each case. The study does not name the brands.

"I feel like we hear about new places that have PFAS every day," said Christy Remucal, a University of Wisconsin-Madison associate professor of engineering who studies the chemicals and did not participate in the study.

PFAS, also known as "forever chemicals," are gaining more attention in Wisconsin and nationwide. The chemicals have been linked to increased risks of cancer, thyroid disease and other adverse health effects. As some residents are being forced to drink bottled water due to contaminated wells, state and federal agencies are weighing new regulations."