PFAS Definition
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a group of thousands of man-made chemicals that make materials resistant to grease, water, heat and stains. They are often called "forever chemicals" because they break down extremely slowly and build up in the environment and the human body, where some have been linked to health problems. In packaging, PFAS have mainly been used to make paper and board grease-proof, for example in fast-food wrappers and takeaway boxes. They can also get into packaging unintentionally, for example through recycled fibers or processing aids used in plastic production.
What are the PFAS limits for packaging in the EU?
Since 12 August 2026, the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) has banned food-contact packaging that contains PFAS at or above these levels:
- 25 ppb for any single PFAS
- 250 ppb for the sum of PFAS
- 50 ppm for all PFAS, including polymeric (large-molecule) PFAS
ppb (parts per billion) and ppm (parts per million) measure how much PFAS a package contains relative to its weight. For example, 50 ppm equals 50 milligrams per kilogram. The limits also apply to recycled materials and to packaging filled at the point of sale, such as takeaway cups. Packaging already on the market before that date can still be sold, but packaging placed on the market after it must comply, whenever it was produced. The limits currently cover only food-contact packaging, though PPWR's wider rules on substances of concern may extend restrictions to other packaging later.
How can a business make sure its packaging complies?
- Identify food-contact packaging. List every pack and component that touches food, including items filled in store. Pay extra attention to recycled paper and board, which can carry PFAS from earlier use.
- Collect supplier evidence. As part of supplier data onboarding, ask packaging suppliers to declare that no PFAS are intentionally added and to provide recent test results.
- Test where the risk is higher. There is no single EU test method yet. The European Commission recommends a stepwise approach: start with a total fluorine test, which generally indicates compliance if the result is below 50 mg/kg. If it is higher, further tests show whether the fluorine comes from PFAS and whether the individual limits are exceeded.
- Document the results. Add the evidence to the packaging's technical documentation and Declaration of Conformity. If total fluorine exceeds 50 mg/kg, be ready to show authorities how much of it comes from PFAS.
- Retest when something changes. A new supplier, material, recycled-content share or production site can change the result. Record test dates and results for each component so outdated evidence is easy to spot.
Can packaging be labeled "PFAS-free"?
Meeting the PPWR limits does not make packaging PFAS-free, because the limits allow trace amounts. A "PFAS-free" claim needs its own evidence, such as test results showing no detectable PFAS, and must comply with EU consumer-protection rules on environmental and health claims.
