PFAS Testing for Food Contact Materials
Based on PFAS Target Analysis, in-House method by GC/MS and LC-MS/MS for EU market or Total Organic Fourine Content, with reference to EN 14582:2016 for US market, our experts can provide an accurate and precise measurement of the potential for environmental contamination.
What is PFAS and why is PFAS regulated?
Food packaging, factory equipment, and utensils often come into contact with our food. Thousands of chemicals in food contact materials (FCM) can migrate into what we eat or drink. Notably, per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are synthetic compounds used in items like paper takeaway boxes and wooden utensils for their grease and water resistance.
PFAS has now been linked to a wide range of health risks in both human and animal studies—including cancer (kidney and testicular), hormone disruption, liver and thyroid problems, interference with vaccine effectiveness, reproductive harm, and abnormal fetal development. Regulation of PFAS has increased due to their toxicity and environmental impact, leading to stricter customer demands and proposals to limit their use.
What SGS can help?
| Market | Test Item | Description |
|
EU Market |
REACH |
Detection of perfluorinated carboxylic acids (C9-14 PFCAs), their salts and precursors |
| US Market |
Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) |
Detection of flourine content |
Sample Size:
10 Grams
Turnaround Time (Working Days):
7 Days (Regular Service)
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 such as ISO 17065 and ISO 14021, ensures your product meets all criteria, enabling 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 |
| No PFAS Detected | Previously known as the “PFAS Screened” green mark, the name has been updated to “No PFAS Detected” to more accurately communicate not just measurement, but also the level of screening out based on test results. The mark indicates the product or material meets criteria (non-detection) relating to a selected list of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) based on market concerns, actual usage and regulatory considerations. Not applicable to fluoropolymers. |  |
