The UK government has published its first national PFAS plan to address risks linked to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, commonly known as forever chemicals.
The cross-government policy paper sets out coordinated action on monitoring, testing and potential future regulation of PFAS to protect public health and the environment.
The plan is expected to have wide-ranging implications for retailers and the food supply chain, particularly where PFAS may occur in food contact materials and packaging.
New regulatory framework and monitoring strategy
The PFAS plan outlines a long-term approach to understand where these persistent chemicals are found, how they enter the environment, and how exposure can be reduced.
The government intends to strengthen environmental and food monitoring systems and improve the evidence base on PFAS sources and impacts. This includes expanding analytical capabilities for PFAS testing in foods and food contact materials (FCMs), focusing initially on high-risk categories.
The strategy also proposes potential future regulatory action under the UK REACH chemical regime, with the government planning further consultations on restricting certain PFAS uses.
This comes amid ongoing scientific evaluation and continued collaboration with industry, regulators and research bodies to balance risk management with availability of safer alternatives.
Implications for food and retail supply chains
According to the British Retail Consortium (BRC), the PFAS plan could increase scrutiny on the use of PFAS in food packaging and related supply chain processes.
Retailers and suppliers are advised that testing and monitoring efforts may be intensified, especially for materials considered high-risk.
The BRC highlights that the Food Standards Agency and the National Reference Laboratory are enhancing PFAS testing across a range of food and packaging types to support future policy decisions.
The BRC notes that pressure for transparency around PFAS content is likely to grow, with consumers and regulators alike seeking clearer information. Retailers should be alert to possible new controls and increased monitoring that may affect compliance obligations across their product portfolios.
Broader context and next steps
PFAS chemicals have been used for decades in a wide array of products, from non-stick cookware to grease-resistant food wrappers. Their persistence in the environment and links to negative health outcomes have driven growing regulatory interest globally.
The UK government’s plan forms part of this wider trend, emphasising collaboration and a science-led approach.
For the retail sector, the emerging regulatory environment means businesses will need to monitor developments closely and consider supply chain testing, risk assessment and transition planning for PFAS-containing materials.
Ongoing engagement with regulators and participation in industry working groups is likely to be important in shaping how future requirements affect retail operations.
