Q. With reference to perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) that are used in making many consumer products, consider the following statements:
1. PFAS are found to be widespread in drinking water, food and food packaging materials.
2. PFAS are not easily degraded in the environment.
3. Persistent exposure to PFAS can lead to bioaccumulation in animal bodies.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Correct answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3
Question from UPSC Prelims 2024 GS Paper
Explanation :
1. “PFAS are found to be widespread in drinking water, food and food packaging materials.”
– This is correct. PFAS are extensively used in food packaging (like grease-resistant paper and containers), and due to their widespread use and persistence, they have contaminated drinking water sources and food supply chains.
2. “PFAS are not easily degraded in the environment.”
– This is correct. PFAS are known as “forever chemicals” because of their extremely strong carbon-fluorine bonds that resist breakdown. They persist in the environment for very long periods, which is a major environmental concern.
3. “Persistent exposure to PFAS can lead to bioaccumulation in animal bodies.”
– This is correct. PFAS are lipophilic (fat-loving) compounds that can accumulate in the tissues of living organisms over time. They tend to biomagnify up the food chain, meaning higher concentrations are found in predators compared to prey species.
Since all three statements are correct, the answer is (d) 1, 2 and 3.
This is what makes PFAS particularly concerning from an environmental and health perspective – they’re widespread in use, extremely persistent in the environment, and can accumulate in living organisms, potentially causing various health effects over time.
