The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced that fast-food wrappers and packaging containing perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), known as forever chemicals, are no longer being sold in the U.S. This move comes as a result of a voluntary effort with U.S. food manufacturers to eliminate PFAS from food contact packaging.
Starting in 2020, the FDA worked with food manufacturers to phase out PFAS in wrappers, boxes, and bags that have coatings to prevent grease and liquids from soaking through. Many fast-food companies, including McDonald's, had already stopped using PFAS-containing wrappers before the original phase-out date.
PFAS chemicals have been linked to various health issues, such as affecting cholesterol levels, liver function, the immune system, and certain types of cancer. Dr. Sheela Sathyanarayana, a pediatrics professor, praised the removal of PFAS from packaging as a positive step but noted that there are still many other sources of PFAS in the environment.
Consumers concerned about PFAS exposure can check EPA maps to see if their drinking water is affected and use filters to remove the chemicals. Dr. Sathyanarayana also advised reducing consumption of meat and dairy products, avoiding certain cleaning solvents, and removing shoes indoors to prevent tracking PFAS into the house.
While the elimination of PFAS from food packaging is a significant achievement, Dr. Sathyanarayana emphasized that PFAS exposure is widespread and encouraged individuals to take steps to minimize their exposure to these harmful chemicals.
