The 1940s brought us some serious innovations—computers, penicillin, even the microwave. But not everything from that era was a gift. It’s also when PFAS chemicals were created—and they’ve been contaminating our world ever since.
Today, PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are found in countless everyday products, from non-stick pans and water-repellent fabrics to food packaging. These “forever chemicals” don’t break down, lingering in our water, soil, and even our bodies. In fact, studies prove that the majority of people have PFAS in their blood (CDC).
The latest research is alarming. A study in Italy’s Veneto region linked PFAS exposure to nearly 4,000 deaths, highlighting connections to cardiovascular disease and cancer (National Centre for Biotechnology Information). And that’s just one study - there’s a growing body of evidence showing the toxic reality of PFAS contamination.
One of the biggest culprits? Grease-resistant takeaway packaging. Many food containers - most commonly 'bagasse' or bamboo fibre cartons - are coated with PFAS to stop oil and liquids from seeping through. But even at low levels, PFAS chemicals in food packaging are toxic. They leach into food, are ingested, and accumulate in the body over time - posing serious health risks.
PFAS chemicals don’t just cost lives -they carry a staggering global economic burden of €16 trillion per year (Rice University).
To put that into perspective:
Guess who’s footing that bill? We are - through higher healthcare costs, pollution cleanup, and long-term environmental damage.Regulation is coming - but is it fast enough?Governments are finally taking action. In 2026, the EU will ban PFAS in all food-contact packaging (European Parliament). But until then, millions of takeaway containers coated with toxic PFAS chemicals will continue to enter the market.
Do we really want to wait?
We don’t need to rely on toxic chemicals when nature already provides a better solution. At Notpla, we use seaweed-based technology to create PFAS-free, plastic-free takeaway packaging - a 100% natural alternative that performs just as well, without the health risks. And we're not just saying it, but we've had the testing done to prove it, too.
✔ Certified PFAS-free packaging – safe for food, people, and the planet
✔ Sustainable food packaging – made from renewable seaweed
✔ Biodegradable & compostable – breaks down naturally, unlike plastic
✔ Plastic-free takeaway packaging – a true alternative to single-use plastic
The transition to PFAS-free food packaging shouldn't be considered as a regulatory headache - it’s an opportunity. Restaurants, caterers, and takeaway providers that act now will be ahead of the curve, protecting both their customers and the planet.
It’s time to rethink packaging and go PFAS-free for the sake of the population's health.
Want to learn more about how PFAS-free packaging can transform your business? Explore our range of sustainable takeaway packaging solutions here.
Not yet—but the world is moving in that direction. In the EU, PFAS in food-contact packaging will be banned under the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), coming into effect in 2026. Some US states, like California and New York, have already introduced bans, while wider restrictions are under review globally. Despite delays, the science is clear: PFAS are harmful, and the pressure to eliminate them is only increasing.
PFAS are used in takeaway packaging to make it grease-resistant. However, they are toxic and contaminate food, water, and the environment (NRDC).
Seaweed-based packaging is one of the most sustainable alternatives, offering the same grease-resistant properties without harmful chemicals.
A "no added PFAS" claim doesn’t guarantee a product is PFAS-free. It simply means the manufacturer hasn’t intentionally added forever chemicals, but PFAS could still contaminated or 'topped up' to levels which are currently acceptable. With the EU’s PFAS ban in food packaging under the PPWR from 2026, businesses need to look beyond marketing claims and choose truly PFAS-free packaging.
Yes. The health risks associated with PFAS - including cancer, hormone disruption, and immune system damage - make it essential to switch to PFAS-free food packaging now, rather than waiting for regulations.
In 2024 a sample of Notpla's seaweed-coated board was submitted to the ISEGA labs for testing. The results certify that there is no presence of PFAs or other toxic forever-chemicals.
ISEGA is an independent testing institute specialising in materials that come into contact with food. Their certification ensures that packaging meets strict safety standards, free from harmful substances that could transfer to food.
A Peek Inside Notpla’s Design Lab 
Notpla Secures £20 Million in Series A+ Funding to Revolutionise Sustainable Packaging
Notpla vs. Plastic 