The global push to reduce single-use plastic waste has led to many countries banning plastic straws, shifting the market toward alternatives. Paper straws have quickly become the most common replacement in restaurants and fast-food businesses worldwide. Consumers adopted these products hoping for a more environmentally friendly option. This widespread adoption has prompted scientific investigations into the safety of these paper substitutes. The primary concern is whether chemicals used in manufacturing pose a toxicity risk to users. This article examines the current scientific findings regarding the presence of potentially harmful substances in paper straws.
Identifying the Potential Toxic Agents
The primary group of substances identified as a concern in paper straws is Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). These synthetic compounds are often called “forever chemicals” because they break down extremely slowly in the environment and the human body. Recent research has confirmed the widespread presence of these chemicals in paper straw products.
A 2023 European study analyzed 39 different straw brands made from various materials. The findings showed that paper straws were the most likely to contain these compounds, with PFAS detected in 90% of the brands tested (18 out of 20).
The specific PFAS detected varied, including perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), which has been globally restricted due to health concerns. Researchers also found ultra-short-chain variants, such as trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) and trifluoromethanesulfonic acid (TFMS). These short-chain PFAS are highly water-soluble, which is a particular concern regarding their potential to transfer into a drink.
Why Chemicals Are Used in Paper Straw Manufacturing
Paper quickly absorbs moisture and loses structural integrity when submerged in liquid. To ensure the product remains functional, manufacturers employ chemical treatments. The chemicals, including PFAS, provide a water-repellent coating that prevents the paper from becoming soggy and dissolving. This addresses the primary functional failure point of untreated paper straws.
The presence of PFAS is not always intentional but can result from contamination. Chemical residues may inadvertently enter the supply chain through raw materials, such as paper pulp, or through the water used during manufacturing. However, the high frequency of detection suggests that intentional application as a water-repellent is a likely source in many cases.
Evaluating the Health Risk to Consumers
The most significant aspect of PFAS exposure is bioaccumulation, where chemicals build up in the body over time because they are not easily excreted. While concentrations of PFAS in individual paper straws are low, even small amounts contribute to the overall chemical load already present in a person’s system. This long-term accumulation poses the primary public health concern.
Exposure to PFAS has been associated with a range of adverse health effects from long-term, low-level intake. These health issues include disruptions to the endocrine and immune systems, such as a lower response to vaccines. Exposure is also linked to increased cholesterol levels, liver damage, and higher risks for certain cancers, including kidney and testicular cancer.
The actual risk from typical paper straw usage is limited for most people who use straws only occasionally. The total amount of chemical that transfers from the straw into the drink, known as leaching, is a key factor, and more research is needed to quantify this specific transfer rate under real-world conditions. Consumers concerned about cumulative exposure may choose alternatives; stainless steel straws were the only type consistently found to be free of PFAS in testing.