Packaging’s Biggest Problem: PFAS 

We have a big problem. Potentially toxic “forever chemicals” are being found in our food and even drinking water and packaging is contributing to this environmental and health disaster. What are PFAS and what can the industry do?

“Green”, “compostable”, and toxic 

This group of around 14,000 artificial PFAS (Per- and PolyfluoroAlkyl Substances) are also called “forever chemicals” because they do not naturally break down, and they are linked to cancer, liver problems, thyroid issues, birth defects, kidney disease, decreased immunity and other serious health problems. 

For years, these chemicals have been incorporated into paper wraps, bags, plates, cups, and various other food packaging items to resist the effects of grease and water, which could otherwise compromise the integrity of the products. Additionally, they are used in certain plastic food packaging materials to create a protective barrier against spoilage. These chemicals are particularly prevalent in moulded fibre bowls, often promoted as “green” and “compostable” as they can replace or reduce plastic packaging.
 

Recent bad news all around the world

A new, global study found that food packaging from around the world contains at least 68 “forever chemicals” that can seep into what we eat. And 61 of them are not even supposed to be used in such products. This kind of packaging may include coated paper wrappers, plastic containers and aluminium foil.

Locally, a recent research revealed that many common UK food items contain PFAS pesticides. PAN UK analysed the latest results from the UK government’s residue testing programme, finding that ten different PFAS pesticides were present in spices and a range of fruit and vegetables including grapes, cherries, spinach and tomatoes. Strawberries were found to be the worst offenders, with 95% of the 120 samples tested by the government in 2022. 

According to the Guardian, the US Food and Drug Administration in 2020 reached a “voluntary agreement” with some packaging producers to a five-year phaseout of 6:2 FTOH, a PFAS chemical regularly used in food packaging, after they had evidence of its toxicity. And although companies may no longer add 6:2 FTOH to food packaging and are following the phase out, a Canadian study found that the compound still seems to end up in packaging after manufacturing due to another group of PFAS chemicals.

The study checked 42 pieces of packaging from popular fast-food restaurants that serve burgers, burritos, salads, fries, doughnuts and other common foods, and found PFAS in about half. 

Supermarkets and restaurants committed to change

According to the updates of PFASFREE.org.uk, Asda, Co-op, Morrisons are committed to removing PFAS from own brand packaging by 2025. In terms of restaurant chains, we see various commitments with Starbucks, McDonalds, KFC and other fast-food brands whether it comes to removing any PFAS containing guest material or brand packaging, while many companies are yet to make an update on their PFAS-free policy.

Calling out companies: beading can mean PFAS  

With this test we can find out if a specific paper/cardboard food packaging likely contains forever chemicals at home. All we need is our food packaging, some olive oil and a home-made dropper. If we drop a small amount of olive oil onto the packaging and it creates a perfect little bead, it means that there is a possibility of PFAS in the product.  

On PFASFREE.org.uk we find an explanation and an email template to contact the retailer or brand and question them directly as they should be encouraged to become transparent about the presence of these chemicals.
 

Global Regulations and Bans in Action 

Response to the growing awareness of PFAS contamination, regulatory bodies worldwide are also acting. In the European Union, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has set maximum residue levels for PFAS in food, while the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is conducting further research into the health effects of PFAS exposure. Some countries (such as Germany, Norway or Sweeden) have implemented bans or restrictions on certain PFAS chemicals to mitigate risks to public health and the environment.  

Of course, this means that the packaging industry is in trouble, primarily due to supply chain disruptions. The phaseout PFAS, while beneficial for the environment, is causing significant disruptions across global supply chains. With leading manufacturers like 3M discontinuing PFAS manufacturing activities by 2025, and with bans increasing manufacturing costs, leading to shortages, delays, and price hikes, businesses are compelled to swiftly adapt their operations and production methods.

A solution for an PFAS-Free Packaging 

Sylvicta, an innovative translucent barrier paper developed by Arjowiggins, offers a PFAS-free alternative to traditional packaging materials. Made from natural ingredients sourced from sustainable forests, Sylvicta addresses the growing demand for eco-friendly packaging solutions: its biodegradable nature aligns with the circular economy model.

“Sylvicta represents a significant step forward in the fight against PFAS contamination in packaging materials,” says Christophe Jordan, Managing Director of Sylvicta. ”Sylvicta achieves its PFAS-free status through a meticulous manufacturing process that excludes the use of harmful chemicals.”