In an effort to protect consumer health, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) initiated the removal of PFAS from food packaging. In short:The FDA announces voluntary phase-out of PFAS, used in many food packaging materials, due to health risks, but it won't happen overnight, and other sources of PFAS exposure remain. Consuming less fast food and avoiding microwave popcorn, grease-resistant wrappers, plastic storage containers and nonstick cookware are among the ways you can reduce PFAS exposure. Key quote:The “major source of dietary exposure to PFAS from food packaging … is being eliminated.”— Jim Jones, deputy commissioner for human foods at the FDAWhy this matters:Food packaging is just one area of concern when it comes to PFAS contamination. EHN continues to test and report on PFAS in common consumer products, from deodorant to clothing to makeup to dental floss.

Source: New York Times March 01, 2024 11:55 UTC