This paper calls into question whether the current PFAS alternatives are in fact safer for humans and the environment.  The authors state the need for research into truly safer alternatives, but they concede that “It has been difficult to find substitutes that match the function and performance level of PFASs. The chemical and thermal stability of PFASs as well as their hydrophobic and oleophobic properties provide unique material benefits.”

However, the need for truly safe alternatives is indisputable:  “Since their initial marketing more than 60 years ago, extensive research has demonstrated that the long-chain PFASs are highly persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic (Buck et al. 2011). As a result, they are being phased out in many countries. However, controversy has emerged regarding the safety of the most common alternatives, the short-chain PFASs.”