Toxic Hazards in Microwave Popcorn

Microwave popcorn has been identified as a source of exposure to PFAS chemicals, substances that persist in the environment and pose potential threats to our health. To assess potential exposures to PFAS by consumers in Indonesia and the US, IPEN, a global network of public interest groups and the Nexus3 Foundation, an Indonesian public interest organization, investigated the PFAS content of popular microwave popcorn brands manufactured in the US to determine if the products exported to Indonesia contain PFAS. We also assess whether the lack of federal PFAS regulations in the US has the potential to impact residents in other countries.

Together the groups purchased 29 microwave popcorn samples produced by four US food companies. Products were purchased in Indonesia and the US and the bags were analyzed for PFAS content. All 29 samples tested positive for one or more PFAS chemicals. The groups also surveyed the four popcorn companies for their policies on PFAS. Only Conagra responded, replying that they are eliminating PFAS from their Act II popcorn bags.

Download the full report below.