The EU PFAS ban: What’s coming your way

In the previous blog, we explained what PFAS are and why they’re under increasing scrutiny. But the pressure isn’t just coming from non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and customers, legislation is catching up fast.

The European Union is working on a sweeping ban on PFAS. What does that mean in practice? And how will it impact your production process?

Let’s break it down.

The core: A broad restriction proposal

In February 2023, five countries, Germany, the Netherlands, Denmark, Sweden, and Norway, submitted a joint restriction proposal to the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA). This proposal aims to ban the use, production, and sale of all PFAS within the EU.

Why? Because the long-term risks of PFAS to human health and the environment outweigh their short-term benefits.

What exactly does the EU want?

The proposal targets:

• A ban on PFAS use in products, including packaging, coatings, clothing, and equipment
• A ban on the production of PFAS-containing substances within the EU
• A ban on the import of products that contain PFAS from outside the EU

Only a small number of applications may qualify for temporary exemptions, depending on the availability of safer alternatives.

Timeline: When will this take effect?

The legislative process involves several steps:

1. Scientific evaluation by ECHA committees (completed in 2024)
2. Formal recommendation to the European Commission
3. Political decision-making (expected in late 2025 or early 2026)
4. Enforcement with transition periods of 18 months to 12 years, depending on the application

So while it may seem far off, the countdown has already begun.

What does this mean for you as a producer?

Chances are that some of the materials or coatings you’re using today will soon no longer be permitted. This could include:

• Grease-resistant food packaging
• Non-stick surfaces on trays or molds
• Machine components with PFAS (such as Teflon) for non-stick performance

If you assess your use of PFAS now, you’ll be ahead of the curve and avoid costly surprises later.

Now is the time to act

The PFAS ban is not a matter of if but when. And producers who anticipate these changes will not only stay compliant but also win trust from clients and auditors.

In our next blog, we’ll explore where PFAS are most commonly found in food production, and how to identify risks in your process.