Trump epa moves to approve fifth pfas “forever chemical” for agricultural use despite health concerns

The Trump administration is preparing to greenlight another PFAS compound for use as a pesticide ingredient, marking the fifth such “forever chemical” the Environmental Protection Agency has proposed for approval since the president’s return to office. This latest chemical would be applied to major food crops including corn, soybeans, and wheat—staples that form the backbone of the American food system.

PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, have earned the nickname “forever chemicals” because they persist indefinitely in the environment and human body without breaking down naturally. These synthetic compounds have been linked to serious health problems including cancer, liver damage, immune system suppression, and reproductive issues. Once released into the environment, PFAS can contaminate soil, groundwater, and surface water for generations.

Public health advocates are sounding alarm bells over the rapid approval of multiple PFAS pesticides, warning that widespread agricultural use could significantly increase contamination of the nation’s food and water supplies. The chemicals can travel far from their application sites through water runoff and atmospheric transport, potentially affecting communities well beyond farming areas.

The controversy highlights a stark divide between the current administration’s regulatory approach and growing scientific evidence about PFAS risks. While the EPA moves forward with approvals, many states and environmental groups are pushing for stricter regulations on forever chemicals. The decision to approve PFAS for use on essential food crops could have lasting implications for public health and environmental safety, as these persistent compounds accumulate over time rather than naturally degrading.