Discover the Latest PFAS Regulations in California, Banned Products, and Corporate Compliance Strategies. Download our White Paper for a complete guide!
PFAS: What Are They and Why Are They Regulated?
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are chemicals used in food packaging, waterproof textiles, firefighting foams, and personal care products. They are known as “forever chemicals” because they do not easily degrade and can contaminate water, soil, and the food chain.
What Are the Health Risks?
- Liver and kidney toxicity
- Endocrine and reproductive issues
- Increased risk of certain cancers
- Bioaccumulation in living organisms
Due to their harmful effects, California has introduced strict laws to ban and limit the use of PFAS in consumer products.
PFAS Regulation in California: Overview of Key Laws
California has implemented stricter laws than federal PFAS regulations. Here are the key legislations:
- PFAS in Food Packaging (AB 1200): Ban on PFAS in plant-based food packaging. Applies to containers, disposable plates, and fast-food wrappers. Effective Date: January 1, 2023
- PFAS in Children’s Products (AB 652): Ban on PFAS in children’s items, including toys, mattresses, and car seats. Effective Date: July 1, 2023
- PFAS in Textiles and Apparel (AB 1817): Ban on PFAS in textiles used for clothing, furniture, and accessories. Effective Date: January 1, 2025
- Compliance and Enforcement (AB 347): Implementation of enforcement mechanisms to ensure regulatory compliance. Mandatory manufacturer registration by July 1, 2029
PFAS-Banned Products in California
If your company manufactures or imports these items, compliance with PFAS regulations is essential:
- Food packaging
- Children’s products
- Textiles and apparel
- Cosmetics and personal care products
- AFFF firefighting foams
Corporate Compliance Strategies
To comply with California’s PFAS regulations, companies must implement the following measures:
- Supply chain mapping to identify PFAS-containing materials
- Material testing using advanced technologies (LC-MS/MS, XRF, TOF)
- Adoption of safe alternatives, such as bio-based materials and PFAS-free treatments
- Certification and compliance programs like ZDHC and OEKO-TEX®
What Are the Most Common PFAS Testing Methods?
To ensure compliance, companies should use specialized testing methods:
- LC-MS/MS (Liquid Chromatography + Mass Spectrometry): Detects specific PFAS compounds
- XRF (X-ray Fluorescence Spectroscopy): Rapid screening for PFAS in textiles and materials
- TOF (Total Organic Fluorine Analysis): Measures total organic fluorine in a sample
Download the PFAS in California White Paper Now
Want to learn more about the latest PFAS regulations and compliance strategies?
Download our White Paper now and discover:
- Active PFAS regulations and key deadlines for companies
- Which products are banned and how to replace them
- Laboratory testing methods to detect PFAS in materials
- Compliance strategies and certifications
