Food Packaging Materials in US Will No Longer Include PFAS Forever Chemicals, FDA Reveals; How Harmful Are These Toxins?

The US Food and Drug Administration has revealed that new food packaging materials in the US, including fast-food wrappers and takeout boxes, will no longer have toxic "forever chemicals."

PFAS Forever Chemicals

PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a varied synthetic chemical group that resists stains, heat, oil, and water. These properties are the reason why they have been used for different products, including nonstick cookware, household cleaners, and food packaging.

These chemicals are extremely durable. In fact, it could take years for them to break down. This is the reason why they have been regarded as "forever chemicals."

Once these chemicals are discarded, they can leak into the environment as they break down slowly. They can accumulate in lakes, rivers, and soils and may also go into the human body when people consume food or drinks that have been exposed to the forever chemicals through packaging or production. People can also take it in when they inhale PFAS-tainted dust. The chemicals can build up in the blood of a person and even in breast milk.

Several studies have revealed the potential health impacts of varied PFAS exposure. For instance, these forever chemicals have been associated with immune system disruptions, reduced fertility, and weight gain.

Forever Chemicals Will No Longer Be Included in US Food Packaging Products

Now, through a recently released statement, the FDA has declared that these materials for grease-proofing will not be included in new food packaging products across the US. This involves forever chemicals used for microwave popcorn bags, fast-food wrappers, pet food bags, and takeout boxes.

Jim Jones, the deputy commissioner for human foods at the agency, explains that this action will eliminate a major PFAS dietary exposure source. Companies have told the agency that it may take up to 18 months for these product supplies to be completely exhausted. However, the agency notes that most of the manufacturers that are affected phased out their packaging products faster than predicted.

Jones explains that this effort is a positive step forward as the reevaluation regarding authorized chemicals used in and with food continues. It also stresses a crucial milestone in protecting consumers in the US from the harmful chemicals.

This announcement resulted from several years of effort. Initial steps were taken in 2020 when the agency revealed that it was collaborating with manufacturers to phase out certain PFAS chemicals in food packaging. The aim was to have these products phased out in three years.

Dr. Sheela Sathyanarayana, a pediatrics professor from the School of Medicine at the University of Washington, explains that the removal of PFAS from poock packaging is a noteworthy step towards the right direction. Graham Peaslee, a physics professor from the University of Notre Dame who examines PFAS, also shares that the new announcement by the FDA is a great win for the public.

However, while the main source of PFAS exposure is food packaging, there are several other environmental sources. These include dairy and meat products, as well as drinking water.

As it may take up to 18 months for these products to be removed from the market, the FDA will keep on conducting research and updating evaluations with the most updated science in order to ensure the accuracy of risk determinations.

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