For years, packaging has done more than hold a meal, it has kept sauces in place, survived delivery rides, and protected quality under heat and pressure. What most operators never saw was the invisible helper behind that reliability: PFAS.
The Shifting PFAS Story
PFAS were designed to resist heat, oil, grease, and water, eventually showing up in packaging that moves burgers, burritos, noodles, salads, pastries, and more. But researchers began finding PFAS in soil, water, wildlife, and human bloodstreams. Once they enter the body, they latch on and remain.
Studies show PFAS can build up in the body, weaken the immune system, disrupt hormones, stress the liver, and affect development during pregnancy, prompting global regulators to take a precautionary approach.
Why 2025-2026 Matters
In the United States, the FDA confirmed in 2024 that PFAS-based grease-proofing coatings were no longer produced or permitted. In 2025, enforcement expectations tighten as states require documentation, updated compliance letters, and fluorine screening.
In the European Union, August 2026 marks a shift to extremely low PFAS thresholds, a near zero-tolerance approach that impacts any food-contact packaging sold into or sourced from the EU.
PFAS-free is moving from a claim to a requirement.
Performance Without PFAS
Today’s PFAS-free solutions are engineered for modern menus and delivery pressures:
- Fiber-based barrier coatings for stronger hold times and better performance with fried and saucy foods
- Modern water-based coatings for bowls, trays, bakery wraps, and sandwich wrappers
- Selective liners or light laminations for very oily, high-heat, or delivery-prone items
There is no single “best” alternative, the right fit depends on menu items, heat exposure, and hold times.
A Practical Path Forward
Simple steps help operators stay ahead:
Ask for documentation.
Start with high-risk items.
Standardize requirements.
Test before rollout.
Choose the strictest standard.
This shift is not about perfection, it is about direction.
Partnering for Progress
Direct Source Procurement helps organizations transition from PFAS to PFAS-free. With 20+ years of procurement expertise and a vetted global supplier network, DSP delivers solutions that balance performance, sustainability, and compliance, while protecting cost and operational timelines.
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FAQs
1. Why did PFAS become so common in packaging?
They were strong, predictable compounds designed to resist heat, oil, grease, and water.
2. What caused the shift away from PFAS?
Researchers found PFAS in soil, water, wildlife, and human bloodstreams, and studies show they can build up and remain for years.
3. Does PFAS-free mean zero PFAS?
PFAS-free means no intentionally added PFAS, with only tiny, acceptable traces verified through fluorine screening.
4. Are PFAS-free alternatives reliable?
Yes, innovation has moved quickly, and many fiber-based and water-based coatings now rival legacy PFAS performance.
5. What should operators do first?
Request documentation, focus on high-risk items, and test packaging with real menu conditions.
6. How can businesses prepare?
Standardize PFAS language in specs and partner with suppliers offering compliant, scalable solutions.
