Publication Date: First Week of July 2025
With growing global attention on PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), also known as “forever chemicals,” new regulations in the U.S. and Europe are driving significant changes across the paper and packaging chemicals industry.
Expanding PFAS Bans Across the Globe
In the United States, New York State recently expanded its PFAS ban to include feminine hygiene products and food packaging. At the same time, New Mexico enacted a sweeping PFAS ban, reflecting a growing trend of proactive state-level legislation even in the absence of uniform federal action.
Meanwhile, European countries like France and Denmark have already implemented full bans on PFAS in consumer products and food-contact materials. These measures are laying the groundwork for the EU’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), set to take effect in 2026, which mandates the phase-out of PFAS in food-contact paper products.
Federal and State-Level Movement in the U.S.
Although the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has delayed some final decisions regarding PFAS limits in drinking water, several U.S. states have moved ahead with tighter restrictions on PFAS in packaging materials and consumer goods, signaling a more aggressive local regulatory landscape.
Market Impact
1. Surge in Demand for PFAS-Free Alternatives
As the phase-out accelerates, there’s a growing demand in the paper and packaging sectors for PFAS-free barrier chemicals, including oil-resistant, water-repellent, and sizing agents.
2. Suppliers Are Shifting Product Strategies
Facing both regulatory and consumer pressures, chemical suppliers are investing more in fluorine-free emulsions, bio-based polymers, and EVOH-based barrier solutions.
3. Supply Chain Reconfiguration
Stricter compliance requirements are prompting paper converters and packaging producers to source materials from suppliers with proven regulatory documentation. This shift is driving innovation while tightening quality and certification standards.
Recommendations for Buyers
- Stay Informed: Regional policy shifts can have immediate impacts on compliance and export eligibility.
- Choose Verified Fluorine-Free Solutions: Particularly for food-contact applications, ensure suppliers provide reliable test reports and regulatory documentation.
- Act Early: Transitioning ahead of the enforcement timeline will mitigate future risks of product bans or recalls.
Under mounting regulatory pressure and increasing environmental awareness, the paper chemicals market is undergoing structural transformation. Whether you are a papermaker, converter, or chemical manufacturer, early adoption of PFAS-free technologies will offer a significant market advantage.
👉 Recommended Product:
Explore our Azfc® Series of Fluorine-Free Oil-Resistant Agents — including Azfc® 90F, a high-performance grade resistant to 100°C, and Azfc® 60F, a more cost-effective option for general applications. Both are widely used in food-grade packaging, industrial oil wrapping, and paper–plastic barrier laminates.
