tags

PFAS
Chemical
TSCA
US EPA New Rules: Strengthening Control of Persistent Chemicals PFAS

On September 28, 2023, U.S Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced an important new rule under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), requiring manufacturers of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) to provide more data for better regulation. PFASs are a large class of chemically stable organic fluorides known for their water and stain resistance, as well as good insulation. They find extensive use in various industrial sectors, including food packaging, electronics, leather and apparel, construction and household applications, firefighting, and medical supplies. However, PFASs are persistent and migrate in the environment, making them difficult to degrade. They are also called persistent chemicals and have posed a significant threat to human health and the ecological environment.

Collection of PFAS Bans in Various States of the United States

In October 2021, the US EPA developed a PFAS strategic roadmap. In the absence of comprehensive federal legislation, several states are developing or updating their own PFAS regulations. This article compiles the current regulatory situation. According to the OECD, PFAS are defined as any substance containing at least one perfluorinated methyl (CF3-) or methylene (-CF2-) carbon atom (with no H/Cl/Br/I attached to that carbon atom). PFAS include thousands of synthetic chemicals such as perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS). PFAS have non-stick, oil-resistant, water-resistant, and grease-resistant properties. Since the 1960s, PFAS have been used in food contact substances (FCS) in the US, including cookware, food processing equipment (such as gaskets and O-rings), processing aids for other FCS (such as reducing buildup on manufacturing equipment), and food packaging (such as a grease-resistant coating).