FDA Bans PFAS in Food Packaging, Boosting Safety
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has declared that certain Per- and PolyfluoroalkylSubstances (PFAS) used as grease-proofing agents on paper food chains are no longer sold in the country. This shift is due to voluntary market commitments by manufacturers, following health concerns.
The phase-out primarily affects specific short-chain 6:2 fluorotelomer alcohol (6:2 FTOH) PFAS substances. Major companies like 3M and Chemours have already reduced or ceased production of these chemicals for food packaging. They now offer alternatives such as non-fluorinated grease-resistant coatings and biodegradable materials like paper or plant-based coatings.
The FDA's announcement does not impact other authorized uses of PFAS, including non-stick applications on cookware or food processing equipment. Long-chain PFAS have not been sold in the U.S. since around 2016 due to similar voluntary phase-outs and FDA regulations. The agency continues to monitor the food supply for PFAS content through its periodic 'Total Diet Study', which has included PFAS testing since 2019. Distributors and businesses may still use existing stocks of food contact materials containing these short-chain PFAS until June 2025.
The FDA's action aims to reduce exposure to PFAS in food packaging. Manufacturers are working to ensure comparable alternative materials are available. The agency is also developing a validated analytical method to specifically monitor PFAS in food packaging. Other FDA-authorized short-chain PFAS substances for food contact use have also been voluntarily phased out by manufacturers.
