US - Rhode Island Bans PFAS from Food Packaging

​The Rhode Island governor has signed into law prohibiting per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from food packaging made or sold in Rhode Island beginning in 2024.

PFAS chemicals are used as grease-proofing agents in fast-food wrappers, microwave popcorn bags, take-out paperboard containers, and pet food bags to prevent oil and grease from foods from leaking through the packaging.

The legislation (2022-H 7438A, 2022-S 2044A) prohibits food packaging to which PFAS have been intentionally added in any amount from being manufactured, knowingly sold, or distributed in Rhode Island, as of January 1, 2024.

It also allow Rhode Island to participate in multistate efforts to implement the ban, such as review of regulatory applicability, certification of compliance, education and outreach.

Nine other states, Connecticut, Maine, Vermont, New York, Maryland, California, Colorado, Washington and Minnesota, have laws banning PFAS in food packaging. Hawaii's legislature has also passed a ban, currently awaiting signature.