The man-made ‘forever chemicals’, known as PFAS, are synthetic compounds used in various everyday applications such as fast food packaging, non-stick cookware, firefighting foams, and stain repellent chemicals for clothing and carpets. Despite their widespread use, a recent survey conducted on behalf of Celebration Packaging revealed that 80% of consumers are unfamiliar with PFAS.
Beginning in April 2024, all Foodlube products will be free of PFAS, with the company estimating that this change will prevent approximately 425 kilograms of ‘forever chemicals’ from entering the environment annually. While PFAS are recognized as harmful to the environment, there is currently no outright ban in place.
The European Union is currently debating a proposal for a universal restriction on PFAS, with the European Commission expected to respond to these proposals later this year. Gareth Procter, senior product manager at Rocol, emphasized the importance of meeting the sustainability goals of customers in the food sector.
“We will continue to develop technology to ensure that Rocol remains at the forefront of this issue, with the ultimate goal of all our products being PFAS-free without compromising performance,” stated Procter. Rocol will introduce its new PFAS-free FOODLUBE formulations at the Anuga FoodTech 2024 event in Cologne, Germany, on 19-22 March 2024.
In the ever-evolving landscape of food and drink sustainability, sustainable packaging, and food and drink marketing, it is crucial for companies to adapt to changing consumer trends. By prioritizing sustainability and eliminating harmful chemicals like PFAS, businesses can demonstrate their commitment to environmental responsibility and meet the demands of conscious consumers.
