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Group raises awareness about PFAS chemicals in packaging

North Carolina had one the first known contaminations. Chemicals from a plant near Fayetteville were found in the Cape Fear River and in drinking water around Wilmington.

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By
Adam Owens
, WRAL anchor/reporter
RALEIGH, N.C. — A small group gathered in downtown Raleigh Saturday to take on a big problem.

They gathered in Nash Square. A few people that hoped to make a lot of noise.

They want action against PFAS. Long-lasting chemicals found in things that might be all around you right now.

“Makeup, food packaging, rain coats and it provides this layer that means it is non-stick,” said Sarah Hunkins, An advocate with Toxic Free Future. “It is ending up in our bodies and it is a serious issue.”

And PFAS have been linked to liver and thyroid problems and some cancers.

“We know there is plenty of support in North Carolina for this ban,” said Hunkins.

North Carolina had one the first known contaminations. Chemicals from a plant near Fayetteville were found in the Cape Fear River and in drinking water around Wilmington.

Mia Adcock grew up around Wilmington.

“So many people aren’t aware. Our own water was contaminated,” said Adcock. “Why isn’t it banned yet?”

That is what the rally was about, gathering support to get PFAS banned in food packaging.

The group said say it’s a start.

"This is a critical step, we are asking people to call their senators," said Hunkins.

The Biden Administration has announced an initiative to regulate and restrict the use of these chemicals.

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