Teflon and Scotchgard both belong to a family of chemicals known as PFOAs, or perfluorooctanoic acids. They are known for their resistance to sticking and staining, but more is being learned about these chemicals in the environment, their presence in human bloodstreams worldwide and their ability to remain in bloodsteams over long periods of time.

In light of a recent report released by West Virginia University showing levels of PFOA in residents of Parkersberg, W.Va., the site of the DuPont plant where Teflon is still manufactured, exceeding five times the median national level, The Ethicurean has a great informational piece on the history, health implications and continued production of PFOAs.

As previously reported by Minnesota Monitor, PFOAs have been detected in human breast milk, linked to low birth-weight, and found in lakes, rivers and drinking supplies throughout the Twin Cities as a result of years of dumping and seepage from 3M waste sites.