Researchers have established a link between pregnant women’s exposure to polyfluoroalkyl compounds (PFCs) and increased weight in infants that may predispose them to obesity later in life.

PFCs are found in protective coatings of packaging products, clothes, furniture, and non-stick cookware. Human exposure to them is increasingly common.

These findings are consistent with emerging evidence that chemicals in our environment are contributing to rising rates of obesity and related illnesses.