FDA: PFAS phased out of U.S. food packaging

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced the discontinuation of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in grease-proofing materials used in food packaging across the United States. This significant move eliminates a major source of dietary PFAS exposure from items such as fast-food wrappers, microwave popcorn bags, take-out containers, and pet food bags.

Today's announcement fulfils a voluntary commitment by manufacturers to cease sales of food contact substances containing specific PFAS intended for grease-proofing in the U.S. This effort, led by the FDA, marks a positive stride forward in reevaluating chemicals authorised for food use and represents a significant milestone in protecting U.S. consumers from potentially harmful food-contact chemicals.

This achievement reflects FDA research and leadership, in collaboration with industry cooperation. In 2020, the FDA urged companies to halt sales of grease-proofing substances containing certain PFAS types following safety assessments. FDA-led research played a crucial role in securing commitments from manufacturers to phase out these PFAS-containing substances in paper and paperboard food packaging products.