How to reduce PFCs in your home

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PFCs, known to affect immune, thyroid and liver function in mice, may be dangerous for humans too, says a new study. It found a lower immune response after tetanus and diphtheria vaccinations in kids who’d had more exposure to the chemical, used in products including non-stick cookware, clothing and fast-food packaging.

Bottom line:
How can you keep your kids — and yourself — safe? The Environmental Working Group suggests starting in the kitchen. Ditch paper plates, make popcorn on the stove instead of in the microwave, and cut back on greasy packaged foods. And switch to stainless steel and cast-iron pans that don’t have PFCs, as Teflon pans and utensils do.