PFAS Series | Concerns in Food Contact Materials: The "Forever Chemicals"

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a highly persistent class of synthetic chemicals that are raising significant concerns due to their accumulation in the environment and in human bodies. These substances are linked to various health issues, including:

• Developmental problems
• Cancer
• Liver damage
• Immune system disruption
• Vaccine resistance
• Thyroid disease
• Impaired fertility

What Makes PFAS So Persistent?

Often referred to as "forever chemicals," PFAS are notorious for their durability and resistance to degradation. They are commonly found in food packaging and other food contact materials (FCM) used throughout the food supply chain, including production, processing, transport, handling, and storage. They are shown to migrate from different FCMs, such as single-use, paper, cardboard, and plant-based molded fiber food containers and tableware, into food, allowing for exposure of the general public.

The Regulatory Landscape: A Growing Response

In recent years, the global community has intensified efforts to regulate PFAS. Various legislative measures have been implemented to restrict their usage:

• European Union: The EU has put stringent regulations in place under the Stockholm Convention and the Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) framework, focusing on eliminating and restricting PFAS in consumer products.
• United States: The FDA is actively reviewing the safety of PFAS in food contact materials, while states like California, New York, and Washington have enacted laws to ban or limit PFAS in products such as food packaging, firefighting foam and textiles.

Industry Shift: Moving Towards PFAS-Free Alternatives

Many major brands and manufacturers are transitioning away from PFAS due to health and environmental concerns, as well as regulatory pressures and consumer demand. They are developing PFAS-free alternatives, including:

• Biodegradable coatings
• Plant-based materials for non-stick and water-repellent applications

Pioneer in PFAS Detection

SGS has been a pioneer in PFAS detection since their harmful effects were first identified in Parkersburg, Virginia, in the early 2000s. The company developed the gold standard for PFAS testing, known as the EPA 1633 method, for the US Environmental Protection Agency and the US Department of Defense.

Leveraging our extensive testing capabilities and commitment to innovation, SGS is well-equipped to meet the growing demand for PFAS testing, reaffirming our dedication to environmental stewardship and public health.

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