BEUC, the organization representing national consumer organizations in Europe, has released a new report highlighting the issue of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in various consumer products. These substances are commonly used in products that require water, grease, and stain resistance properties, including paper and cardboard food packaging such as takeaway containers, popcorn bags, and pizza boxes.
PFAS, also known as “forever chemicals,” are synthetic chemicals that persist in nature and have been linked to numerous health issues by scientists. These health issues include reproductive and developmental problems, liver and kidney damage, immune system dysfunction, thyroid disorders, and increased cancer risks.
The report states that some of the chemicals found in these products may cause cancer, birth defects, and reproductive harm. However, BEUC emphasizes that a significant portion of consumer exposure to these chemicals could be prevented if alternatives were utilized. This suggests that there are viable alternatives available for the tested products.
BEUC’s members conducted tests in 2017 and 2018 on fast-food packaging and found high levels of fluorinated compounds, including those of “very high concern.” These compounds, such as PFOA, can damage fertility and harm the unborn child.
Currently, there are no detailed EU rules specifically for paper and board food packaging, despite restrictions on single-use plastic items. This lack of regulation means that the use and safety of PFAS compounds in these products remain unregulated in practice. However, some sub-groups of PFAS are regulated at the European level through the EU chemical regulation REACH.
To address this issue, the European Commission’s Chemicals Strategy in 2020 called for the phasing out of all PFAS in non-essential uses. Additionally, the EU Chemical Agency (ECHA) revealed proposals for EU-wide restrictions on all PFAS to come into force in 2025. The ECHA highlighted the need for action to minimize releases of PFAS, as their persistence in the environment poses health risks to humans, plants, and animals.
BEUC supports a ban on “forever chemicals” and urges the EU to update its flagship chemicals law REACH to allow for early and precautionary action against potentially harmful chemicals. Strengthening regulations and taking decisive action to mitigate the widespread use and potential harm associated with PFAS in consumer products is crucial.
BEUC Director General, Monique Goyens, emphasizes the need for lawmakers to act swiftly to deliver a toxic-free life for consumers. She calls for the process of removing harmful chemicals from the market to be expedited.
In addition to demanding the phasing out of harmful chemicals from consumer products, BEUC also calls for better enforcement of existing legislation in the market and strengthened import controls to prevent the sale of products that may pose risks to consumer health or contain banned substances.
In parallel to these efforts, the Minderoo Foundation in Australia has created the Plastic Health Map database, which focuses on PFAS. This world-first database maps over 3,500 studies dating back to the 1960s that investigate the exposure to plastic chemicals and their impacts on human health. The foundation emphasizes the need for a precautionary approach to chemical regulation and continued monitoring of new and existing plastic chemicals to protect human health.
By systematically mapping existing research, the aim is to gain a better understanding of the issue and inform regulatory changes. The map includes studies from the 1960s onwards, as this was the period when large-scale production and plastic pollution significantly increased, leading to inevitable human exposure to plastic materials and their degradation products.
In conclusion, BEUC and the Minderoo Foundation are calling for urgent action to address the widespread use and potential harm of PFAS in consumer products. Strengthening regulations, phasing out harmful chemicals, and continued monitoring are necessary steps to ensure consumer safety and a toxic-free environment.