PFAS in your production process? These are the hidden sources

In our previous blogs, we explained what PFAS are and why they’re under pressure. But what does that actually mean on your factory floor?

In this blog, we zoom in on the practical side: where PFAS are commonly used in the food industry, and where you might unknowingly be at risk.

PFAS in food production: More common than you think

Because PFAS were long considered “useful, water-repellent, heat-resistant and grease-proof, they’ve made their way into many areas of the food chain. Below is an overview of the most common uses:

1. Packaging

PFAS are used in grease- and moisture-resistant coatings in many types of food packaging, such as:

• Fast food containers (wrappers, pouches, boxes)
• Paper trays and plates
• Pizza boxes
• Microwave popcorn bags

Even though there’s increasing pressure to eliminate PFAS from packaging, many of these products are still in circulation.

2. Processing equipment and surfaces

In production environments, PFAS can be found in:

• Non-stick coatings on baking molds, trays, and equipment
• Conveyor belts with PFAS-based surface layers
• Machine components containing PFAS (like Teflon) for non-stick properties

These applications are often hard to spot, because the materials perform well—yet they may pose a risk when in direct or indirect contact with food.

3. Process water

PFAS can enter your production process via contaminated water, for example:

• When using water that comes into contact with food (rinsing, steaming, cooking)
• When cleaning machines or tools
• When reusing or recycling water in production

Water authorities are becoming more alert to this—but internal checks are just as essential.

4. Workwear and PPE

PFAS are also found in personal protective equipment and work clothing. Think of:

• Water-repellent jackets, aprons, or trousers
• Gloves with grease-resistant coatings
• Spray guards or shields with PFAS-treated surfaces

Even if the chance of direct food contact is low, these items still contribute to PFAS exposure in your environment.

Why this matters

Customers, auditors, and regulators are increasingly asking: “Can you prove your process is PFAS-free?”
If you can’t answer with confidence, you risk:

• Liability in case of contamination
• Issues during audits or export
• Loss of trust among clients and partners

The good news: there are alternatives. In the next blog, we’ll show how to start transitioning toward a PFAS-free process, safely and effectively.

Coming up in blog 3: How to take action and future-proof your production process without PFAS.