Do PFAS in food-contact materials enter your diet?
Yes, PFAS can migrate from some food-contact materials into food. The risk depends on the material, food type, temperature, and contact time.
What's actually in it
PFAS are per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. Some food-contact materials use PFAS to resist grease, oil, and water. That includes some paper wraps, molded fiber bowls, baking papers, and other food packaging.
The key issue is migration. That means a chemical moves from the package into the food or into a food-like test liquid. Migration depends on the material, food, heat, and how long the food touches the package.
What the research says
A 2021 review in Foods found that PFAS are detected in food-contact materials such as fast-food packaging, microwave popcorn bags, and frying pans. The review also found that normal use and storage conditions can affect PFAS migration into food.
A 2022 Food Chemistry study tested PFAS-treated paper food-contact materials under high-temperature use. The study found PFAS migration into real foods and food simulants, and estimated child exposure above EFSA's proposed safety threshold in the tested scenario.
A 2024 Chemosphere study measured PFAS migrating from paper-based food-contact materials such as popcorn bags, muffin cups, and pizza boxes into food simulants.
What to do at home
Do not heat food in grease-resistant paper, takeout boxes, or coated wrappers. Move leftovers into glass, stainless steel, or ceramic before reheating. Use glass storage at home when you control the container.
The research at a glance
What to use instead
For leftovers and reheating, glass storage is a practical swap away from coated paper and plastic food packaging.
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