Can paper food containers contain PFAS used for grease or water resistance?
caution
Short answer
Yes. Some paper food containers can contain PFAS used for grease, water, or oil resistance.
Paper is not automatically untreated. The coating is the part to watch.
Why this matters
Takeout bowls, wrappers, and paper food containers often need coatings so they do not leak. Hot or greasy food can sit against that coating.
Not every paper container contains PFAS. But if takeout packaging is a daily habit, it is worth reducing coated paper food contact when you can.
What the research says
A 2026 Science of the Total Environment study tested food-contact paper products and found PFAS, including PFHxA, PFBA, and PFHxS, in food service paper products.
A 2026 Chemosphere study tested 66 paper and plastic food packaging materials from the United States. At least one PFAS was detected in 64% of the samples, and 6:2 diPAP was found in 61% of samples.
What to do instead
Move hot or greasy food out of disposable paper packaging when practical.
For food you pack yourself, use glass storage. Do not reheat food in coated disposable paper containers.
The research at a glance
| Study | Journal | Year |
|---|---|---|
| PFAS in commercially available organic amendments and food-contact paper products. | Sci Total Environ | 2026 |
| Assessment of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in consumer food packaging. | Chemosphere | 2026 |
What to use instead
Glass storage jars avoid coated disposable paper containers for packed food and leftovers.
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