FDA Announces Phase-Out of PFAS in Food Packaging

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration's recent announcement marks a significant step towards eliminating dietary exposure to harmful 'forever chemicals' in food packaging.

Certain types of PFAS, known as 'forever chemicals', will no longer be used in U.S. food packaging, following an FDA announcement.
The phase-out is the result of voluntary efforts by food manufacturers, initiated in 2020, to eliminate these chemicals from fast-food wrappers, microwave popcorn bags, and take-out pizza boxes.
Health and environmental advocates have welcomed the move, highlighting the potential health risks associated with PFAS, including changes in immune and liver function, obesity, diabetes, certain cancers, and lower birth weights.
Despite the phase-out, it may take up to 18 months to exhaust the existing stocks of food packaging containing PFAS.
Experts advise consumers on ways to minimize exposure to PFAS, including checking water sources and reducing consumption of meat and dairy products.