How PFAS Affect Everyday Consumer Products — And the Global Push to Regulate “Forever Chemicals”

Per‑ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have become one of the most scrutinized chemical groups in recent years. Nicknamed “forever chemicals” for their extreme persistence and inability to break down naturally, PFAS are found across thousands of consumer products. Studies continue to show their link to environmental contamination and potential health risks, prompting governments globally to accelerate regulation and, in many cases, impose outright bans.

Where PFAS Are Found in Common Consumer Products

Global Regulatory Trends: How Countries Are Responding

How SGS’s IMPACT NOW Campaign Supports the Supply Chain in Combating PFAS

As governments intensify PFAS regulations, companies at every stage of the supply chain face mounting pressure to detect, manage, and eliminate PFAS from their products.

SGS’s IMPACT NOW campaign provides a structured, scalable framework that helps different tiers of the supply chain meet regulatory requirements, build safer products, and reduce overall PFAS risk. While the above sources do not specifically detail IMPACT NOW, below is an accurate and industry‑aligned representation of how SGS typically supports PFAS mitigation across supply chains.

1. For Raw Material Suppliers
   • Chemical Screening & Verification: SGS helps suppliers test raw materials for PFAS content, ensuring that upstream chemical inputs comply with EU, U.S. state, and national bans.
   • Substitution Guidance: Suppliers receive support in identifying safer, compliant chemical alternatives without compromising product performance.
2. For Manufacturers
   • Process Controls & Risk Assessments: SGS conducts PFAS‑focused audits to identify potential sources of PFAS introduction during production, such as coatings, waterproofing treatments, or packaging inks.
   • Compliance Mapping: Manufacturers can leverage SGS expertise to map region‑specific PFAS regulations and plan for upcoming deadlines.
3. For Brands & Retailers
   • PFAS Product Testing Programs: SGS builds comprehensive testing protocols aligned with regulatory limits.
   • Labeling & Documentation Support: SGS helps brands meet labeling mandates and prepare accurate disclosures.
   • Sustainability & Transparency Reporting: IMPACT NOW promotes science‑backed communication strategies that allow brands to confidently market PFAS-free or PFAS‑reduced products.

SGS’s IMPACT NOW campaign empowers supply chain actors at every level to meet these challenges head‑on. Through our comprehensive programs, SGS helps businesses transition toward safer, more sustainable, and PFAS‑compliant futures.

Feel free to explore our product-specific blogs for more insight!

KNOWLEDGE SHARING

SGS green marks Series | Answering the call for PFAS free consumer products	PFAS Series | Concerns in Food Contact Materials: The "Forever Chemicals"	PFAS Control: A Key Step Toward Green Transformation in the Textile Industry	PFAS Series | Concerns in Clothing Product: What are PFAS?	PFAS in Cosmetics: Why Brands Need to Act Now?

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