The European Union wants to limit the presence of some PFASs. PFASs are also known as ‘indestructible chemicals’ or ‘everlasting chemicals’ because they have a very long degradation time.
The new measures under the REACH Regulation seek to restrict the sale and use of undecafluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA) and related substances in some everyday consumer products such as textiles, food packaging and cosmetics. In the case of textiles, it can be found in some neoprene garments or waterproof clothing, as well as in kitchen utensils such as frying pans, microwave popcorn bags or fast food packaging, and in candy or candy wrappers.
In the cosmetics sector, PFASs may be present in the formulation of some personal care products such as shampoo, dental floss or in nail polish or colour cosmetics products.
The European Environment Agency (EEA) has explained that PFASs are dangerous because they accumulate over many years in humans, animals and the environment and that, although they have not been studied in depth, they could be ‘moderately to highly toxic to children's development’.
The EU has not banned all PFASs, but they claim that this is the ultimate intention and have started with a ban on undecafluorohexanoic acid because they argue that it is not adequately controlled. Brussels says alternatives to this substance are already available.
The measure will come into force 20 days after its publication in the Official Journal and will have a transition period of between 18 months and 5 years to give companies time to replace their products with safer alternatives.