PFAS restrictions on food-contact materials are tightening across the European Union. For importers and distributors sourcing bagasse tableware, this makes verifiable PFAS-free documentation a purchasing requirement, not a marketing bonus.
Why PFAS matters in food packaging
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a broad family of synthetic chemicals historically used in food packaging to provide grease and water resistance. Health and environmental concerns have driven regulatory action in Denmark, France, the Netherlands and other EU member states, with a broader EU-level restriction under active discussion.
For buyers, the practical impact is straightforward: bagasse tableware sold into European markets should be free of intentionally added PFAS, and suppliers should be able to prove it with recent lab reports.
Documentation to request from suppliers
A credible bagasse manufacturer can provide, per SKU and production run, evidence covering the material composition and food-contact suitability. Typical documents include:
PFAS test reports
Third-party lab reports covering total organic fluorine (TOF) or targeted PFAS panels, aligned to the destination market's threshold.
Food-contact declarations
Declarations of Compliance referencing EU Regulation 1935/2004 and, where relevant, national provisions such as the French Decree on PFAS in food-contact paper and board.
Material and process statement
A written confirmation that no PFAS-based additives are used at any stage of production, including anti-grease coatings and mould release.
Questions to ask before placing a PO
Beyond documents, direct questions surface how mature a supplier's compliance programme is. Useful examples: How often are PFAS panels re-tested? Which lab issues the reports? Is TOF tested per production batch or per SKU family? Is the coating (if any) fluorine-free by design or by substitution?
Frequently asked questions
Is bagasse naturally PFAS-free?
Bagasse fibre itself does not contain PFAS. PFAS can appear when manufacturers add fluorinated coatings for extra grease resistance. Ever Pack products are produced without intentionally added PFAS; documentation is available per SKU and destination market.
Which EU markets have the strictest PFAS rules today?
Denmark and France have adopted specific restrictions on PFAS in food-contact paper and board. Other member states are advancing similar rules, and an EU-wide restriction is under discussion.
How recent should a PFAS test report be?
Buyers commonly require reports within the last 12 months and re-testing on any change of raw material supplier, coating or major process step.
Sources & references
- European Commission — Food contact materials — European Commission
- ECHA — Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) — European Chemicals Agency
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