EU Strengthens PFAS Restrictions with New Regulation on PFHxA and Related Substances in Consumer Products, Including Food Contact Materials

On September 20, 2024, the Comisión Europea released Commission Regulation (EU) 2024/2462, an update to Annex XVII of the REACH Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006. This amendment introduces new restrictions on undecafluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA), its salts, and related substances across a range of consumer products, including food contact materials, with phased timelines to aid industry adaptation. As PFHxA has often served as a substitute for the previously banned PFOA, this regulation marks further progress in the EU’s commitment to reducing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) emissions, aimed at safeguarding public health and the environment.

Key Points of the Regulation

• Restricted Product Categories: Starting October 10, 2026, PFHxA, its salts, and PFHxA-related substances are restricted in textiles, leather, furs, hides in clothing, footwear, general accessories, food contact materials (e.g., pizza boxes), mixtures for consumer use, and cosmetic products. Concentration limits are set at 25 ppb for PFHxA and its salts, and 1,000 ppb for PFHxA-related substances in these products.
• Firefighting Foam Restrictions: Firefighting foams used for training, public fire services, and civil aviation also face these restrictions, with phased compliance deadlines from October 2026 to October 2029.
• Exemptions: Certain critical items, such as personal protective equipment, medical devices, and construction textiles, are exempt to meet essential health and safety needs.

This regulation reflects the EU’s structured approach to reducing PFAS emissions, balancing industry adaptation with prioritized consumer safety and environmental sustainability.