FDA Announces Phase-Out of PFAS in Fast-Food Packaging to Protect Public Health

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently announced that fast-food wrappers and packaging containing PFAS, also known as "forever chemicals," will no longer be sold in the United States.

Phasing Out PFAS

Starting in 2020, the FDA collaborated with U.S. food manufacturers to phase out the use of PFAS in wrappers, boxes and bags with special coatings. This effort was a voluntary commitment from the food industry to eliminate these harmful chemicals from food contact packaging.

Industry Response

Many fast-food companies, including McDonald's, took proactive measures to stop using PFAS-containing wrappers even before the official phase-out date. This demonstrates a positive initiative from the industry to prioritize consumer health and safety.

Health Implications

PFAS have been associated with various health issues, including impacts on cholesterol levels, liver function, immune system and certain types of cancer. Dr. Sheela Sathyanarayana, a pediatrics professor, highlighted the significance of eliminating PFAS from packaging as a positive step in safeguarding public health.

Mitigating Exposure

While the removal of PFAS from food packaging is beneficial, Dr. Sathyanarayana emphasized that there are multiple sources of PFAS in the environment. Furthermore, she advised consumers to be mindful of PFAS levels in drinking water and consider using filtration systems to reduce exposure.

Consumer Recommendations

To minimize PFAS exposure, Dr. Sathyanarayana recommended reducing consumption of PFAS-contaminated foods such as meat and dairy products. Additionally, she advised against using certain indoor cleaning solvents and products treated with water-resistant chemicals.

Moreover, simple practices such as removing shoes indoors, washing hands before eating or preparing food, and staying informed about PFAS levels in the environment are essential for mitigating exposure to these harmful chemicals.