Question 1

What are PFAS and why are they being banned in food packaging?

Accepted Answer

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a class of synthetic chemicals often called "forever chemicals" because they do not break down in the environment. They have been used in food packaging for grease and water resistance. Growing evidence links PFAS exposure to health risks, which has led 14+ US states, the EU, and Australia to restrict or ban their use in food contact materials.

Question 2

Which states have banned PFAS in food packaging?

Accepted Answer

As of March 2026, states with enacted bans include New York, California, Washington, Vermont, Minnesota, Connecticut, Maine, Maryland, Colorado, Hawaii, Oregon, Rhode Island, and New Hampshire. Several more states have proposed legislation. Visit our State Regulations page for the full list with effective dates and penalties.

Question 3

Does my restaurant or food truck need to comply with PFAS bans?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the state. Most PFAS food packaging laws target manufacturers and distributors, not end-use food service operators. However, a few states (like New York) have language that may extend liability to restaurants and food trucks. Our free compliance checker shows you exactly which rules apply to your business based on your state and packaging types.

Question 4

What happens if I use non-compliant packaging?

Accepted Answer

Penalties vary widely by state. Some impose civil fines per violation (ranging from $500 to $50,000), while others rely on enforcement actions or injunctions. Many states provide transition periods before enforcement begins. Check your specific state on our penalties guide for details.

Question 5

How do I know if my current packaging contains PFAS?

Accepted Answer

The most reliable method is to request a Certificate of Compliance (CoC) or PFAS-free declaration from your packaging supplier. Some suppliers now proactively label packaging as PFAS-free. If you need verification, independent labs can test packaging for total fluorine content. Our blog guide on checking packaging walks through the options step by step.

Question 6

How does the free compliance checker work?

Accepted Answer

Select your state and the types of food packaging you use. The checker cross-references your selections against our regulatory database (covering 21 jurisdictions) and shows which rules apply, including effective dates, scope, and penalties. No account or credit card is required for the free check.

Question 7

Is the regulatory data accurate and up to date?

Accepted Answer

Every jurisdiction in our database is cross-referenced against primary legislative sources — state legislature sites, government agency pages, and trusted legal analyses. Our data was last verified on March 1, 2026. If you spot an error, please contact us.

Question 8

Is this legal advice?

Accepted Answer

No. PFAS Packaging Check is an information tool that summarizes publicly available regulations. It is not a substitute for legal advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney or regulatory specialist for guidance specific to your situation.

Question 9

Is there a free tier?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The free tier lets you check compliance for 1 state with up to 5 lookups per month. No account or credit card required. It includes a basic compliance report and access to state regulation pages.

Question 10

Is there a free trial for paid plans?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Starter and Pro plans include a 14-day free trial with full access to all plan features. No credit card required to start.

Question 11

Can I change plans at any time?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. You can upgrade, downgrade, or cancel your plan at any time. Changes take effect at the start of your next billing cycle. If you upgrade mid-cycle, you receive prorated credit.

Question 12

Do you offer annual billing?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Annual billing is available for all paid plans at a 20% discount. Visit our pricing page and use the Monthly/Annual toggle to see annual pricing.

Frequently Asked Questions

PFAS Regulations

Compliance Checker

Pricing & Plans

Ready to Check Your Compliance?

Frequently Asked Questions

PFAS Regulations

Compliance Checker

Pricing & Plans

Ready to Check Your Compliance?