ME LD 1503 (2021)
Maine's LD 1503, signed in 2021, takes a phased approach that will ultimately create the broadest PFAS ban in the United States. Phase 1, effective May 1, 2026, bans PFAS in plant fiber-based food packaging — covering molded fiber containers, paper products, and similar compostable items. Phase 2, effective January 1, 2032, goes far beyond food packaging to ban PFAS in all products sold in Maine, making it the most expansive PFAS restriction enacted by any US state.
The Maine Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) enforces the law with penalties up to $10,000 per violation. Phase 1 is the immediate concern for food businesses: restaurants, food trucks, and packaged food brands must ensure their plant fiber packaging is PFAS-free by May 2026. The Phase 2 all-products ban is a longer-term planning consideration that will affect everything from food packaging to textiles, cleaning products, and any consumer good containing intentionally added PFAS.
Maine's regulatory framework includes a "currently unavoidable use" exemption process, where DEP can grant temporary exemptions for products where PFAS alternatives are not yet commercially available. However, food packaging is unlikely to qualify for this exemption given the wide availability of PFAS-free alternatives in the market. For food businesses in Maine's tourism-heavy coastal communities, Portland's growing food scene, and rural food service operations, Phase 1 compliance should be the immediate priority.
ME LD 1503 (2021)
All food packaging + coatings, inks, and adjacent items
Phase 1 (May 2026): PFAS banned in plant-fiber food packaging. Phase 2 (2032): PFAS banned in ALL products sold in Maine — the broadest PFAS ban in the US.
Civil: up to $10,000 per violation
Up to $10,000 per violation. Enforced by Maine DEP.
Exemptions
Maine's PFAS ban primarily targets manufacturer and distributor in the supply chain. While food service operators are not directly liable, you should request PFAS-free documentation from your packaging suppliers to avoid supply chain disruptions.
Prepare for the May 2026 Phase 1 Deadline
Phase 1 targets plant fiber food packaging. Begin verifying your plant fiber containers, paper products, and compostable packaging now to ensure full compliance before the May 1, 2026 effective date.
Obtain DEP-Ready Supplier Documentation
Request PFAS-free certifications from every supplier of plant fiber food packaging. Maine DEP may request proof of compliance, and documentation should specifically reference LD 1503 requirements.
Plan Long-Term for Phase 2 (2032)
The 2032 all-products ban will affect non-packaging items your business uses. Begin identifying PFAS-containing products across your operations (textiles, cleaning supplies) and planning for alternatives.
Monitor DEP Unavoidable Use Determinations
Maine DEP will publish determinations on "currently unavoidable use" exemptions. While food packaging is unlikely to qualify, monitoring these decisions helps you understand the regulatory landscape and plan for Phase 2.
Use our free compliance checker to verify your food packaging meets Maine's PFAS regulations.
Run Free Compliance CheckLegal Disclaimer
This page provides general information about Maine's PFAS food packaging regulations and is not legal advice. Regulations may change; always verify current requirements with the relevant regulatory authority. PFAS Packaging Check is an information tool — consult qualified legal counsel for advice specific to your situation.