The European Commission has adopted new measures to protect human health and the environment by restricting the use of undecafluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA) and related substances, through inclusion in Annex XVII (Restrictions). This measure marks a significant step in reducing PFAS emissions and strengthens the EU’s commitment to tackling chemical pollution.
The restriction applies to everyday products such as:
- Textiles: Rain jackets and other fabrics.
- Food packaging: For example, pizza boxes.
- Cosmetics: Skin care products.
- Firefighting foams: For training and testing, without compromising safety.
The restriction will come into effect 20 days after its official publication, with transition periods of up to 5 years to allow the adoption of safer alternatives.
For more information on PFAS, you can visit the dedicated ECHA webpage.
