Scientists in Europe have claimed that paper straws contain ‘forever chemicals’ that take thousands of years to disintegrate and have been linked to cause cancer as well as health problems for the liver and thyroid.
The scientists studied 39 different brands of drinking straws and found that 90 percent of the ones made of paper contain chemicals called poly- as well as perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).
Majority of the straws made of paper and bamboo tested positive for the said harmful chemicals. The stainless steel ones were found to be PFAS-free.
The chemicals are also harmful to the environment, people and wildlife according to the researchers.
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