What is Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)?

PFAS are widely applied in textile and leather finishes as water or oil-repellent treatments, packaging materials for protection, non-stick coating in cookware, and so on. However, PFAS substances are carcinogenic. They persist in the environment and may cause bioaccumulation in mammals.

How are PFAS regulated?

PFAS usage is restricted in regions like the EU, US, and part of Asia. Organizations such as the ZDHC Foundation and AFIRM promote responsible use among manufacturers. Numerous NGOs are studying PFAS in products like food contact materials and activewear, prompting many brands to stop using PFAS or seek alternatives.

Some regulations, such as California AB 652 and EU regulation 2021/1297, ban specific PFAS but often lack clear lists of prohibited substances. This ambiguity complicates risk assessment and compliance monitoring, making it difficult for companies to ensure products meet safety standards regarding restricted PFAS.

What SGS can help?

We now offer a tailor-made PFAS Test Program as a one-stop solution to meet EU, US and other market requirements, providing client support for compliance and product integrity.

SGS PFAS Test Methods:

• Total Fluorine Screening reference to EN 14582

• • Suitable for US market regulations where the substance list has not been well-defined
  • Quick method to check any non-intentionally added fluorinated substance or any contamination of fluorinated substance in the final product

• Individual PFAS test

• • Fulfill EU POP and REACH regulatory PFAS substance requirements
  • Focus on market requirements and worldwide regulations governing SGS’s optimized target list of PFAS substances list

Additionally, we can provide services for Total Organic Fluorine screening and other tailor-made testing against client-specific protocols.

Green Marks Certification and Verification Scheme:

A variety of voluntary ecolabeling schemes have emerged to help businesses meet consumer demand for sustainable products. However, environmental claims must be scientifically backed and trustworthy.

Our independent assessment scheme, based on recognized standards like ISO 17065 and ISO 14021, ensures your product meets all criteria, allowing for differentiation in competitive markets. Each protocol clearly defines the product scope and certification criteria, clarifying the environmental claim for consumers. By focusing on one attribute per mark, you can effectively communicate your product’s positive environmental aspects.

Attribute	Significance	Sample
PFAS-Assessed	Highlights the better chemistry of a product while aligning with the trend of eliminating PFAS "forever chemicals" from both products and packaging across many industries.

Why choose SGS?

We are a trusted and independent third-party service provider providing tailor-made PFAS testing services using verified test methods for a wide range of product types. We help you to ensure that your products comply with statutory and voluntary regulatory requirements.