Fast-food chains vow to nix ‘forever chemicals’ found in wrappers

Restaurant Brands International announced plans to eliminate per- and polyflouroalkyl substances (PFAS) from all consumer packaging globally by the end of 2025 or sooner. The commonly used chemicals have earned the nickname “forever chemicals” because they break down so slowly and can be found in our bodies, water, soil, air and food. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency says high levels of certain PFAS may cause reproductive issues, developmental delays, increased risk of cancer, diminished immune response, interference with the body’s natural hormones, elevated cholesterol and higher risk of obesity. A study released Thursday by Consumer Reports found PFAS in more than half of the 118 food package samples taken from major restaurants and grocery stores. . . .