PFAS: what they are, health risks and safe alternatives 2026

In recent months, the topic of PFAS has become increasingly central in public debate. Also due to media coverage related to the Miteni case, awareness of the environmental and health risks associated with these chemical substances has grown.

As a result, many people have started rethinking their daily habits, moving toward safer choices for health and more sustainable options for the environment. This trend also involves everyday items such as pots and pans, essential tools in our kitchens.

But what exactly are PFAS? And why do they raise so much concern?

PFAS: what are they?

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a large family of synthetic chemical compounds used since the 1940s to make materials resistant to water, grease, and high temperatures.

There are thousands of different molecules, all sharing one key feature: extremely stable carbon-fluorine bonds. This stability makes PFAS highly resistant and difficult to degrade—in other words, they are persistent both in the environment and in the human body.

Moreover, PFAS are highly mobile: once released, they can quickly spread in the environment, contaminating water, soil, and air, and reaching areas far from their origin.

To date, over 4,000 compounds in this family have been identified, widely used in numerous everyday products: from non-stick cookware to waterproof textiles, carpets, coatings, food packaging, and some agricultural products. Such widespread use makes exposure to PFAS more common than one might think.

PFAS: what they are, where they are found and their risks (Mario Negri Institute)

PFAS and health risks

What are the most well-known health risks associated with PFAS?

Scientific research, still evolving, has highlighted possible correlations with several effects on the body, including:

• Hormonal system alterations
• Impairment of vital organ function, particularly liver and thyroid
• Immune system issues
• Increased cholesterol
• Impact on fertility and development
• Increased incidence of certain types of cancer (still under study)

Overall, this has led institutions and the scientific community to consider PFAS substances that must be carefully monitored. For this reason, in recent years there has been a stronger push toward reducing exposure and adopting safer alternatives in everyday life.

PFAS and cookware: what to know

Regarding pots and pans, many traditional non-stick coatings, especially older ones, used PFAS such as PFOA, now banned in Europe as it is considered toxic and carcinogenic.

We recommend paying attention: today many manufacturers claim “PFOA free,” but this does not necessarily mean “PFAS free.” PFOA is just one of many substances within the broader PFAS family, which includes thousands of different compounds.

PFAS: safe alternatives in 2026

In this context, Primecook has chosen from the beginning to develop PFAS-free non-stick cookware. The strength of the Smeralda Line lies in its Ecoshield non-stick coating, resistant and scratch-proof, completely free of PFAS, nickel, and heavy metals. An ideal solution for those who want to cook in a healthier and more conscious way, both at home and in professional settings.

The direction for 2026 is increasingly clear: reduce exposure to potentially harmful substances and move toward safer, more transparent products designed with greater attention to health and the environment.

For any information about our products, contact us with no obligation.