EU bans PFAS above strict limits in food packaging

New European Union restrictions on PFAS in food-contact packaging took effect Wednesday, meaning packaging containing the chemicals above strict limits can no longer be placed on the EU market.

PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are synthetic chemicals that take an extremely long time to break down. They are often used in food packaging such as pizza boxes, paper bakery bags and wrapping paper because of their water- and grease-resistant properties.

The European Commission said the PFAS measure began alongside broader rules aimed at cutting packaging waste in the 27-country bloc. The rules will take effect in stages and require all packaging to be recyclable by 2030.

The EU also plans to ban some single-use packaging in 2030, including small sauce packets and mini shampoo bottles in hotels, where it is considered unnecessary or where more sustainable alternatives are available.

The rules set targets to cut packaging waste by 5 percent by 2030 and 15 percent by 2040 compared with 2018 levels. They also require clearer labels to help people sort packaging for recycling, return or reuse.

The EU is under pressure to adopt a wider PFAS ban. Experts have warned that chronic exposure to even low levels of PFAS has been linked to liver damage, high cholesterol, reduced immune responses, low birth weights and several kinds of cancer. European officials said earlier this year that a promised legislative proposal on PFAS was not expected before the end of 2026.