VT S.20 (Act 36, 2021)
Vermont enacted one of the broadest PFAS food packaging bans in the United States through Act 36 (S.20), which took effect July 1, 2023. Unlike most states that restrict only plant fiber-based packaging, Vermont's law covers all food packaging regardless of material — plastic, paper, foil, or fiber — and explicitly includes food service gloves. This comprehensive scope means that virtually every food-contact item a restaurant, food truck, or catering business uses in Vermont falls under the ban.
The law is expanding further: beginning January 1, 2026, Vermont will prohibit PFAS in all products with intentionally added PFAS, not just food packaging. This makes Vermont the first state to fully phase out intentionally added PFAS across all consumer products. Penalties reach $10,000 per violation, enforced by the Vermont Attorney General under the Consumer Protection Act. The broad enforcement authority means the AG's office can pursue violations through the same mechanisms used for other consumer protection cases.
For food businesses operating in Vermont, the practical impact is significant. Because the ban covers all materials, you cannot simply switch from fiber-based to plastic packaging to avoid compliance. Gloves used in food preparation must also be PFAS-free, which affects kitchen operations directly. Vermont's relatively small market size means some national suppliers have been slower to confirm Vermont-specific compliance, making it especially important for local businesses to proactively verify their supply chain.
VT S.20 (Act 36, 2021)
All food packaging + coatings, inks, and adjacent items
Prohibits PFAS in ALL food packaging — not limited to plant-fiber. Explicitly includes food service gloves. Jan 2026 expansion covers all products with intentionally added PFAS.
Civil: up to $10,000 per violation
Up to $10,000 per violation. Enforced by VT Attorney General under Consumer Protection Act.
Exemptions
Vermont'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.
Audit All Packaging Materials and Gloves
Vermont's ban is not limited to plant fiber. Review every food-contact item including plastic containers, foil wraps, and food service gloves. All must be free of intentionally added PFAS.
Prepare for the 2026 Product Expansion
Starting January 1, 2026, all products with intentionally added PFAS are banned in Vermont. Assess any non-food items you sell or use (cleaning supplies, textiles) that may also be affected.
Verify Glove Supplier Compliance
Food service gloves are explicitly covered under Vermont's law, which is unusual among state PFAS bans. Confirm with your glove supplier that their products are manufactured without PFAS-based coatings or treatments.
Document Compliance for AG Enforcement
The Vermont Attorney General enforces this law under consumer protection authority. Maintain organized records of supplier certifications and purchase orders to demonstrate compliance during any inquiry.
Use our free compliance checker to verify your food packaging meets Vermont's PFAS regulations.
Run Free Compliance CheckLegal Disclaimer
This page provides general information about Vermont'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.