Navigating the Ban on the Intentional Use of PFAS in Food Packaging

Written by
Carla Milad

All major brand owners are transitioning away from the intentional use of PFAS in their packaging due to existing and upcoming legislation banning these materials. Emmerson Packaging will eliminate the intentional use of PFAS in our products and be fully compliant by January 1, 2024. 

What do you need to do?

  • Confirm with your existing packaging suppliers that they are aware and staying ahead of this industry change to ensure you are compliant.
  • Inform your management teams of this upcoming industry change.
  • Keep your customers informed regarding this change and how this change will benefit them.

Understanding PFAS and Its Impact 

PFAS, or perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, have long been valued for their ability to enhance packaging with water and oil-repellency, stain resistance, and durability. However, the persistence of these "forever" chemicals in both the environment and our bodies has raised concerns.  If you are interested in learning more about the PFAS regulations, the Flexible Packaging Association has provided a summary of the PFAS regulations today: Fact Sheet: PFAS Regulation for Flexible Food Packaging (flexpack.org) 

Why the Urgency? 

Recent research has shown that there is a link between PFAS and serious health issues which has prompted state governments to take proactive measures. Already, multiple states have implemented bans, and the momentum is only growing. At Emmerson Packaging, we recognize the importance of your products' safety which is why we are eliminating the intentional use of PFAS in our packaging processes.

Partnering for Compliance and Success

As a food producer seeking compliant packaging solutions, your journey toward a safer, sustainable future begins with informed choices. Ask questions, seek reliable partners, and stay proactive in your approach. Emmerson Packaging is here to guide you every step of the way. Our dedicated team is not only attuned to upcoming changes but also equipped to provide you with the expertise you need to thrive amidst evolving regulations. 

In this era of change, we invite you to explore our FAQs section to learn more about PFAS and its implications. You can complete our contact us form at any time to begin a partnership that empowers your brand, safeguards your customers, and contributes to a healthier planet. Together, we can navigate the ban on the intentional use of PFAS and embrace a future of responsible packaging. 

 

Frequently asked questions

  • What is PFAS?

    PFAS, or perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, have long been valued for their ability to enhance packaging with water and oil-repellency, stain resistance, and durability. However, the persistence of these “forever” chemicals in both the environment and our bodies has raised concerns.

  • Why is the intentional use of PFAS in Food Packaging being banned?

    PFAS persists in the environment and within the human body, which is why state governments are taking legislative and regulatory action to phase out the intentional use of PFAS in food packaging.

  • What changes has Emmerson Packaging made to ensure its products comply with PFAS regulations?

    We are confident that our packaging meets PFAS legislative standards. The flexible packaging industry previously relied on PFAS chemicals when manufacturing flexible packaging  (like our frozen food, and towel and tissue overwrap films) to give them a smooth finish during production, so removing PFAS from our packaging wasn’t a small matter. One of the initial hurdles was finding PFAS-free supplies, as the industry wasn’t fully prepared for the ban.

    Since January 2024 Emmerson Packaging has been offering our customer PFAS free products. While we faced some setbacks with products that showed increased haze and reduced gloss during these trials, we have identified PFAS-free alternatives for all our resins and processing aids to ensure we are PFAS legislation compliant. We continue to trial PFAS free resins as new products become available in the market.

    Important note: Emmerson Packaging does not test for the presence of PFAS in products. We ensure that we do not intentionally add this chemical when manufacturing our products.

  • How can I learn more about the PFAS regulations?

    If you are interested in learning more about the PFAS regulations, the Flexible Packaging Association has provided a summary of the PFAS regulations today: Fact Sheet: PFAS Regulation for Flexible Food Packaging (flexpack.org)

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