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France has taken a bold step in the fight against harmful chemicals by approving a ban on PFAS—also known as “forever chemicals.”

The new legislation, which passed in a vote 231-51 and is widely supported by French citizens, needs to be signed into law by French President Emmanuel Macron, according to The Washington Post. But, it comes at a time when a growing number of countries are cracking down on PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) for their harmful effects on our health, including increased risks of prostate and testicular cancer, high cholesterol, low birth weight, and immune system dysfunction, according to the Environmental Protection Agency.

The U.S., on the other hand, has yet to take such a wide-sweeping stance on these synthetic chemicals. Here's what you need to know about France's ban and how to stay healthy.

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The Problem With PFAS

PFAS are used to make products resistant to water, oil, grease, and heat. They're found in everything from food packaging to clothing, household items, beauty products, children's toys, and more.

Since they're so unnaturally produced out of manmade chemicals, they take a long time to break down, which is why they've been found in concerning amounts in drinking water, soil, air, and food, according to the EPA. They have also been found in humans and animals.

The EPA's list of adverse health effects that have been linked to exposure of PFAS include:

• decreased fertility or increased high blood pressure in pregnant women
• Developmental effects or delays in children
• Increased risk of some cancers, including prostate, kidney, and testicular cancers
• Reduced immune system function
• hormone disruptions
• Increased cholesterol levels or risk of obesity

France vs. The U.S.: Tackling PFAS

France's new ban on PFAS prohibits the manufacture, import, and sale of PFAS in certain products by January 2026, with a broader ban on all textiles by 2030. While it has some exceptions, (PFAS will still be allowed for use in industrial products or national security needs), it is now one of the most strict moves against PFAS in the world.

Meanwhile, the U.S. does not have a sweeping ban on PFAS. Instead, the EPA has set limits for six specific PFAS chemicals in U.S. drinking water. The agency also continues to study the effects of forever chemicals on humans and animals, with its latest study released in Jan. 2025 that linked PFAS found in farm fertilizers to health risks in farmers, their livestock, and the environment.

Individual states across the U.S. have taken the fight against harmful chemicals into their own hands.

Thirty states have introduced and adopted laws addressing PFAS, including New York, New Jersey, California, Arizona, Washington, and more, according to Safer States. Minnesota’s "Amara’s Law" is among the most comprehensive, which is banning PFAS in 11 product categories in 2025 and phasing out nonessential uses by 2032. It is also requiring companies to state whether or not they use PFAS in their products by next year.

While the U.S. remains slow to act at the federal level, state-level efforts continue to build momentum. Whether the U.S. will follow France’s lead remains uncertain, but with mounting health concerns and public pressure, the demand for action is only growing.

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How to Limit Your Exposure to PFAS

You can check if your local water supply has PFAS contamination using resources like the Environmental Working Group’s (EWG) Tap Water Database.

Next, invest in a reverse osmosis or activated carbon water filter for your sink. Choose fresh foods over packaged whenever possible, and avoid nonstick cookware with PTFE (Teflon).

When shopping for household items, beauty products, toys, or clothing, look for PFAS-free labels, or natural, "clean" products.

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If you’re trying to make your backyard the life of the party this spring, we found just the thing to set your home apart from the rest. Costco's Suncast Cabana Entertainment Shed has everything you need to host an epic happy hour while also doubling as a storage unit. Shoppers are calling the versatile unit an "economical solution" and "the perfect addition for entertaining." Keep reading to learn why.

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The multi-use cabana shed will transform your backyard into a resort oasis—and just in time for warmer weather. The 8' x 7' shed is outfitted with a fold-down bar top that can comfortably fit three to four people, adjustable shelving, two barstools, and two windows.

It makes the perfect set-up for pool parties, backyard barbecues, and sunset happy hours—an ideal yard addition with Memorial Day Weekend and Fourth of July right around the corner.

Speaking of which, on sunshine-filled days, the front panel can operate as a Dutch door, where the top half opens independently of the bottom half, which remains closed. It can be lifted open and used as a canopy, providing shade over the countertop and seating area.

The Suncast shed is made from weather-resistant materials and is built with steel frames for maximum strength and support. According to the product description, the shed can withstand "heavier snow loads." So, if you live in regions that are prone to snow storms and harsher weather, you can rest easy knowing that your belongings will be safe and dry from the outdoor elements.

As for security details, the shed is designed with lockable doors, and there’s enough space to store barstools and hosting essentials inside.

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Now, let’s talk price tag. The Suncast Cabana Entertainment Shed retails for $1,900 and, as is standard with all Costco merchandise, it’s only available for members.

However, shipping/delivery is free. Costco says it will only deliver the boxed item curbside or to the customer’s driveway. Shoppers can select their preferred delivery date.

The warehouse is not responsible for assembly or package removal, nor does it offer those services. Additionally, backyard delivery is not an option. Moreover, Costco only offers delivery within 50 miles of a Costco Wholesale warehouse, so keep that in mind when browsing online.

If you don’t find the cabana’s black-and-gray look aesthetically pleasing, consider zhuzhing up the space with vibrant pops of color and decor. Plants are always a good idea, while a floor rug and throw pillows can make the bar feel more homey. Add personal touches like picture frames or meaningful artwork. If you named the bar, you can get it made into a cool neon sign—or you can do the same thing with your family’s last name.

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