Are PFAS in Everything? What You Need To Know About ‘Forever Chemicals’

PFAS, sometimes called “forever chemicals”, are a group of thousands of chemicals that are used for their non-stick and water-resistant properties. They are used in everyday items like non-stick frying pans, waterproof mascaras, stain-resistant clothing and the packaging for takeaway food items. PFAS can take thousands of years to break down in landfills, and pose harms to human health. Reducing PFAS exposure is challenging but possible.

Here’s our guide, compiled from across the Guardian’s reporting, to forever chemicals.