Clemson lab investigating “forever chemicals”

Whether you are aware or not, according to Clemson University, you likely have been affected by what are known as “forever chemicals”.  They are chemicals that do not naturally break down in the environment.  Instead, they build up and can take up to hundreds of years to decompose.  They are used for non-stick kitchenware and takeout containers to firefighting foams and stain-resistant upholstery.  The laboratory of Clemson professor Bill Baldwin is investigating the direct effects on muscle function to determine if and how they change fatty acid metabolism and the production in muscle, as well as livers.  If forever chemicals are causing so much damage to the environment and to people, why keep using them?  Baldwin says they are cheap to produce and practical to use.