Solidteknics Celebrates PFAS Ban: A Victory for Health and Sustainability

The recent enactment of Minnesota’s PFAS ban, known as “Amara’s Law,” is a monumental step forward in protecting public health and safeguarding the environment. At Solidteknics, we wholeheartedly support the removal of per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from consumer products—especially cookware. PFAS, often referred to as “forever chemicals,” are linked to severe health risks, including liver damage, low birth weights, and cancers, and their environmental persistence causes immense long-term harm.

Dupont’s PFAS Cover-Up: A Warning from the Past

For decades, Dupont concealed the devastating impacts of its first-generation nonstick polymers. Alarming evidence, including birth defects, cancers, poisoned water supplies, and dead livestock, was ignored or suppressed. Internal tests revealed severe damage to animals and workers exposed to these chemicals. Yet, Dupont relied on self-policing and misinformation to continue manufacturing, causing irreparable harm.

The eventual record-breaking fine exposed their actions, but it came too late for many affected communities. Today, warnings from independent scientists suggest newer polymers may carry similar or greater risks, underscoring the urgency of robust laws like Minnesota’s to prevent history from repeating.

Standing Against Industry Resistance

Unfortunately, not everyone shares this commitment to clean and safe cookware. The Cookware Sustainability Alliance (CSA), a group backed by major corporations such as Meyer Corporation, T-Fal, Farberware, Hestan, Circulon, Anolon, Rachael Ray, All-Clad, Imusa, Dash, and Groupe SEB, has filed a lawsuit against Minnesota to block this important legislation. Despite its name, the CSA’s actions demonstrate a prioritization of profit over sustainability or health. These companies are invested in preserving their ability to sell products coated with synthetic nonstick coatings that rely on PFAS.

At Solidteknics, we’re appalled by this blatant disregard for the well-being of consumers and the planet. The lawsuit’s claims that fluoropolymers are “non-toxic” and “safe for use” are deeply misleading. While these chemicals may be deemed “safe” under narrowly defined conditions, the broader environmental and health impacts—from groundwater contamination to bioaccumulation in ecosystems—tell a different story. Minnesota’s $28 billion estimate for cleaning PFAS from its wastewater and landfill leachate underscores the catastrophic costs of inaction.

True Sustainability: A Core Value at Solidteknics

The CSA’s lawsuit exposes the stark contrast between mass-market cookware brands and truly sustainable companies like Solidteknics. While CSA members cling to synthetic coatings that wear out, chip, and degrade over time, Solidteknics has always championed clean, durable, and toxin-free alternatives. Our wrought iron and stainless steel pans are built to last generations, offering natural, non-toxic nonstick performance without the use of synthetic chemicals.

Unlike products from Meyer, T-Fal, and other CSA brands, Solidteknics cookware is:

• Completely Free of PFAS: No synthetic coatings, no compromises.

• Incredibly Durable Cookware: Designed to last a lifetime (or several), eliminating the need for frequent replacements.

• Healthier Nonstick Alternative: Our pans naturally build up a safe, nonstick patina through seasoning, avoiding the potential health risks of synthetic coatings.

• Sustainably Manufactured Cookware: Locally crafted with Australian and European materials, reducing environmental impact and supporting ethical production practices.

A Future Without PFAS

Amara’s Law demonstrates the power of community advocacy in driving meaningful change. By choosing Solidteknics, consumers can reject toxic cookware and support a healthier, sustainable future. Together, we can ensure laws like this set a new standard for accountability and safety in cookware manufacturing.

Sources: 

https://www.reuters.com/legal/litigation/3m-corteva-chemours-hit-with-class-action-over-forever-chemicals-carpet-2024-08-30/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

https://www.reuters.com/legal/litigation/3m-corteva-chemours-hit-with-class-action-over-forever-chemicals-carpet-2024-08-30/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

https://apnews.com/article/maryland-gore-tex-forever-chemicals-lawsuit-d7bd8596627ce57435adca7e166bbcbd

https://www.homepagenews.com/featured-news/cookware-group-sues-minnesota-to-block-ban-on-sale-of-nonstick-cookware-with-pfas/?utm_source=multiview&utm_medium=email