Researchers believe children are more exposed to “forever chemicals” in the air, than in foods and drinks. The chemicals are associated with harm to the immune system, thyroid and mammary glands, and reproductive system.

Current research shows that per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) not only are contaminating water and food, but also the air you breathe. These are a group of man-made chemicals developed in the 1930s that are resistant to water, heat and oil and are used to make products nonstick.

There are more than 4,700 synthetic chemicals in the group with different properties and applications. In 1967, there was a deadly fire on the Navy aircraft carrier USS Forrestal, killing more than 130 people.

Not long afterward, manufacturers developed a PFAS firefighting foam mixture that continues to be used to this day in the military and some fire departments.