PFAS is a group of man-made chemicals. They are used in products such as electronics, nonstick cookware, and pesticides applied in agriculture.
The substances are known for being highly stable and can therefore remain in nature for many years, according to the Environmental Working Group.
In the United States, nearly 70 pesticides containing PFAS are registered.
This corresponds to about 14 percent of all pesticide ingredients approved by U.S. environmental authorities.
Also read: FDA recall warns cream cheese could cause serious illness
According to official records, around 2.5 million pounds of PFAS pesticides are used on agricultural land in one U.S. state each year, the Environmental Working Group reports.
Study of fruits and vegetables
An analysis of government testing data conducted by the Environmental Working Group examined pesticide residues in fruits and vegetables. In total, 930 samples were analyzed.
The results show that 348 of the samples contained traces of PFAS pesticides. This corresponds to 37 percent of the products examined, HealthDay reports.
The study included 78 different types of conventionally grown fruits and vegetables. Residues of PFAS-based pesticides were found in 40 of them.
Also read: What research says about drinking water from plastic bottles
Results from California
Some fruits stood out particularly in the study.
More than 90 percent of the tested nectarines, plums, and peaches contained a PFAS-based fungicide used to prevent mold during storage and transport.
PFAS pesticides were also found in at least 80 percent of samples of cherries, strawberries, and grapes. Strawberries contained residues from as many as ten different PFAS pesticides.
The study therefore shows that traces of PFAS pesticides are present in several fruits and vegetables grown in California.
Also read: Two dead and several seriously ill after meningitis outbreak
At the same time, researchers emphasize that fruits and vegetables remain an important part of a healthy diet, and that thorough washing and choosing organic products can reduce exposure.
Sources: HealthDay, and Environmental Working Group.
Also read: New study: Severe respiratory infections may increase risk of lung cancer