‘Eco-friendly’ paper straws more toxic than plastic, EU study reveals

Poly-and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are described as ‘forever chemicals’ and potentially destructive to human health’ have been identified in 90% of paper and bamboo straws tested in Europe, according to new research.

The study, conducted by a group of Belgian researchers, revealed that straws made of paper are more likely to be contaminated with PFAS than any other type of straws, as manufacturers aim to make the paper water-repellent. 

The EU-based study was launched after US researchers found that PFAS can be readily found in straws made from plant-based materials and that by drinking through such straws, humans may ingest a so far undetermined amount of PFAS. 

But, so far plant-based straws in Europe had not been tested in the same way, despite paper and bamboo straws being widely used since single plastic was outlawed in the UK and Europe. 

In 2020, the UK banned the use of plastic straws, cotton buds and stirrers, amid widespread concern about the impact they were having on plastic pollution in the ocean and damage to wildlife. 

As a result, businesses shifted to the use of more ‘eco-friendly’ plant-based straws, made from materials such as paper and bamboo. 

But, as it has emerged, these plant-based straws and in particular paper straws, contain PFAS which ‘barely break down and are both accumulative and potentially toxic to humans, animals, and the environment’, the study claims.

The study concluded: “These ‘eco-friendly’ plant-based straws are not necessarily a more sustainable alternative to plastic straws, because they can be considered as an additional source of PFAS exposure in humans and the environment (e.g. after degradation in landfills or through incomplete incineration). 

“The most sustainable alternative seems to be stainless-steel straws, which can be reused, do not contain PFAS and can be fully recycled,” it added. 

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