In this episode, Dr. Khara Grieger and Dr. Katy May join us to explore the growing concern around PFAS, often called “forever chemicals,” and their connection to our food and water systems. From cookware and cosmetics to contaminated rivers in North Carolina, they unpack how PFAS make their way into our bodies and the risks they pose for human health, farmers, and local communities. We discuss what the science does and doesn’t yet tell us, the challenges of regulating thousands of PFAS compounds, and how consumers can make more informed choices without panic. Plus, our guests highlight emerging solutions, from municipal water filters to bioremediation, and share why collective awareness and source reduction may be the key to protecting our future food system. Learn more about Dr. Grieger and Dr. May’s work below:Khara Grieger’s NC State Bio Page: https://cals.ncsu.edu/applied-ecology/people/kdgriege/ Katy May’s NC State Bio Page: https://publicscience.ncsu.edu/people/kmay2/ Check out the following resources to learn more about today’s topic:NC State University PFAS Hub: https://superfund.ncsu.edu/pfas-hub/ Guide to Understanding and Addressing PFAS in our Communities: https://content.ces.ncsu.edu/Guide-to-Understanding-and-Addressing-PFAS-in-our-communities PFAS: Concerns Mount Regarding Biosolid Applications: https://farmlaw.ces.ncsu.edu/2025/02/pfas-concerns-mount-regarding-biosolid-applications/ EWG’s Tap Water Database: https://www.ewg.org/tapwater/reviewed-pfcs.php PFAS Central PFAS-Free Products: https://pfascentral.org/pfas-free-products/ PFAS Project Lab Resources: https://pfasproject.com/additional-resources-get-the-facts/ PFAS Exchange - What’s My Exposure: https://www-pfas.pfas-exchange.org/report/graphtool/ The Science That Feeds Us podcast brings together extension agents, faculty specialists, and scientists for interdisciplinary conversations on emerging trends in agriculture and the food system. Designed to inform and engage both professionals and curious consumers, we highlight the stories behind the science to build deeper connections to food and agriculture research. The Science That Feeds Us is supported by NC State Extension and NC State University.Edited and Produced by: Bhavisha GulabraiMusic: Podcast theme music by Transistor.fm. Learn how to start a podcast here.

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