A scandal is making the rounds of the Web currently. Laboratory analyzes that have been carried out on washable menstrual protection from a competing brand contain toxic compounds (PFAS) . The current controversy is causing concern among users and this is why the team at Marie fil would like to provide a few clarifications. Marie fil offers menstrual panties without PFAS or known toxic products!
What is PFAS and what are the risks associated with its presence in tissues?
PFAS (perfluorinated compounds) are man-made chemicals used in many consumer products, such as non-stick coatings, food packaging, waterproof and stain-resistant fabrics, and fire extinguishing foams. In sustainable menstrual hygiene, these chemicals can end up in the tissues dedicated to their manufacture. PFAS are typically used in water and stain resistant fabrics. Thus, several fabric suppliers have seen this as an opportunity when it comes to reusable sanitary protection.
PFAS remaining in the environment
PFAS are eternal chemical compounds since they remain in the environment for long periods of time. The human consequences of exposure to PFAS are as follows according to the National Academies of Engineering and Medical Sciences :
- Increased risk of abnormally high cholesterol
- A suboptimal antibody response
- Reduced infant and fetal growth
- Higher rates of kidney cancer .
Several scientific articles add adverse health effects such as testicular cancer, breast cancer, obesity in children affected at fetal age and more. At present, we find PFAS in the human body but also in aquatic animals.
PFAS in Imported Menstrual Panties
PFAS are not manufactured in Canada. They come from objects that have been imported. Government actions in Canada, as well as in Quebec, have been put in place to limit the use of certain PFAS. The federal government has also adopted regulations prohibiting the manufacture, use, sale and import of certain perfluorinated compounds and products containing them. As there are thousands of different PFAS, some PFAS have been banned from Canada but not all. The main authorized PFAS are used for firefighter and military clothing. By manufacturing its menstrual panties in Quebec and even opting for Canadian fabric suppliers, Marie fil therefore limits the risk of being exposed to PFAS. Indeed, when menstrual panties are manufactured overseas, manufacturers may decide without notice to modify the components of a product in order to reduce manufacturing costs.
PFAS-free period panties and all other sustainable menstrual hygiene products from Marie fil
Since the recent news concerning the menstrual panties of a well-known Canadian brand containing PFAS, Marie fil has decided to dissect her Marie fil menstrual panties to reassure you. Marie fil menstrual panties do not contain chemicals. This is also the case for washable sanitary napkins and menstrual swimsuits .
The benefits of menstrual panties made in Quebec
Although several Quebec companies offer menstrual panties and durable feminine hygiene products, few can boast of manufacturing their products in Quebec. The truth is that a majority of period panty brands have their products manufactured in other countries where it is cheaper to do so. Quality control is therefore much more limited. Marie fil menstrual panties are made in Quebec. Not in South America, not in Asia or India, but in our own sewing workshop located in the lower town of Quebec. This means that each piece of fabric is carefully handled in a healthy environment. No corner is turned round!
The absorbent in hemp and organic cotton of the Marie fil menstrual panties
Our absorbent is proudly knitted with hemp and organic cotton. This absorbent comes to us from a well-known company in British Columbia. This company specializes in the textiles used to manufacture cloth diapers for children. As a Canadian company, it must therefore comply with Canadian PFAS regulations.
The raincoat of the Marie fil period panties without PFAS
The Marie fil menstrual panties are made with a waterproof fabric under the absorbent. This allows it to be waterproof and prevent leaks. The raincoat is a fabric called PUL which was manufactured in Canada according to Canadian standards for food products. The PUL used by Marie Fil is food grade. Our Montreal supplier also confirms that its product does not contain any PFAS.
Healthy fabrics for Marie fil period panties without PFAS
All other pieces of period panties are made of cotton and elastane or organic cotton and elastane. Elastane also called Spandex allows the textile to be stretchable. Elastane does not contain PFAS.
Menstrual panties made in Quebec with Quebec fabrics
Since January 2023, Marie fil has been offering a model of classic menstrual panties made with fabric knitted in Montreal at the Mont Loup company. This novelty demonstrates the importance that Marie fil places on the quality of the materials used. A trend that goes beyond zero waste that goes above all with a healthy and healthy lifestyle.
Yes, Marie fil products are sometimes a little more expensive, but her team is committed to offering durable menstrual hygiene products of impeccable quality. This is why all the steps are carried out with care: the choice of chemical-free fabrics, the making of inclusive sizing patterns and encouraging humane working conditions in a clean and healthy environment. Today, Marie fil adds to her list that she offers PFAS-free period panties!
*This article is based on data collected from Marie fil suppliers as of March 6, 2023.