PFASs are a group of thousands of almost exclusively man-made substances that are used in numerous applications, including food packaging. Concerns about PFAS mainly come from their environmental persistence and potential health effects.
The publication of the updated proposal comes after an assessment of more than 5,600 scientific and technical comments received from third parties during a 2023 consultation. The proposal concludes that a broad restriction is preferable to authorization as it is the most effective and efficient way to manage such a large and complex group of substances used in numerous applications. It further notes that a restriction can cover imported articles.
ECHA aims to complete its scientific evaluation of the proposed EU-wide restriction on PFAS by the end of 2026. The European Commission will ultimately decide on the restriction in consultation with the EU member states.
This article originally appeared on inc.nutfruit.org.
