SGS, the world’s leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 099.23 to keep stakeholders up to date with proposals to ban perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in food packaging in Maine, USA.
The state’s Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) issued a proposal in August 2023 to prohibit nine types of food packaging that contain intentionally added PFAS. These are all made, in substantial part, from paper, paperboard or other materials derived from plant fibers and are intended for short-term storage or to hold freshly prepared food.
If accepted, the change would affect:
1. Bags and sleeves
2. Bowls
3. Closed containers
4. Flat serviceware
5. Food boats
6. Open-top containers
7. Pizza boxes
8. Plates
9. Wraps and liners
SGS has published SafeGuardS 099.23 to help stakeholders understand the context of the proposal. This include details of amendments made in 2019 to prohibit PFAS in food packaging and a provision to direct the DEP to initiate rulemaking for the prohibition of PFAS in food packaging. There are also details of exemptions and where safer alternatives have been determined.
The DEP closed comments on this consultation on August 21, 2023.
Stakeholders are advised to review SGS’s original SafeGuardS 099.23 for more information.
SGS Food Contact Material Services
SGS’s technical experts have extensive experience of testing materials and articles in contact with food. They can ensure that your products meet the appropriate regulations for food contact materials and pave the way for compliance. SGS offers the full range of testing, including migration tests, along with expert advice on emerging regulations, compliance issues and documentation review. In the end, it’s only trusted because it’s tested. Learn more about SGS’s Food Contact Material Services.
SGS SafeGuardS keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in the consumer goods industry. Read the Maine, USA, Consults Over Proposal to Ban PFAS in Several Types of Food Packaging SafeGuardS.
Subscribe here to receive SGS SafeGuardS direct to your inbox.
For further information contact:
Dr. HingWo Tsang
Global Information and Innovation Manager
Tel: (+852) 2774 7420
Melanie Tamayo
Senior Technical Manager
Tel: + 1 312 414 9394
Email: cp.media@sgs.com
Website: www.sgs.com/hardlines
LinkedIn: SGS Connectivity & Products
About SGS
We are SGS – the world’s leading testing, inspection and certification company. We are recognized as the global benchmark for sustainability, quality and integrity. Our 98,000 employees operate a network of 2,650 offices and laboratories, working together to enable a better, safer and more interconnected world.