Member Matters
Upcoming bans on PFAS chemicals in packaging effective from 1 July 2025
20 February 2025
There is a growing concern and tightening of regulations globally of chemicals, such as PFAS, in packaging especially food contact material.
The federal government will enforce a prohibition on the manufacture, import, export, and use of certain perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from 1 July 2025. This includes restrictions on their use in articles such as packaging, with limited exceptions for trace contamination.
IChEMS Framework and PFAS Restrictions
The Industrial Chemicals Environmental Management Standard (IChEMS) classifies chemicals into seven schedules based on their environmental risk. Chemicals of highest concern, listed under Schedules 6 and 7, are subject to stringent controls or prohibitions.
The following PFAS compounds are included in Schedule 7 and will be fully prohibited:
- Perfluorohexanesulfonic acid (PFHxS)
- Perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS)
- Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA)
Impact on Packaging and Compliance
As Australia aligns with the global efforts to phase out PFAS in packaging, members should take proactive steps to ensure compliance:
- Engage with packaging suppliers to verify the absence of Schedule 7 PFAS and other high-concern chemicals in materials.
- Review supply chain documentation to confirm adherence to IChEMS standards.
- Stay informed about regulatory updates and industry best practices.
Further Information
- APCO recently held a webinar on PFAS phase-out requirements in food contact packaging, which can be accessed here.
- Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Waste (DCCEEW) for further information and resources.
The AFGC will host a webinar where we will have DCCEEW’s IChEMS Division and APCO presenting – further details to be shared in due course. Please contact Sarah Collier, A/Director Sustainability (sarah.collier@afgc.org.au) with any questions.
