The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has ordered Inhance Technologies, a major manufacturer of plastic containers, to stop producing packaging laced with PFAS—or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances—the so-called "forever chemicals" linked to severe health and environmental harm. This action follows growing evidence that PFAS, commonly used to make packaging grease-resistant, leach into food, contaminate ecosystems and accumulate in human bodies. The EPA's move has intensified debates over whether regulators are finally prioritizing public health over industry interests. Concurrently, breakthroughs in fluorine-free materials, such as a new ferroelectric polymer from Case Western Reserve University, offer hopes for safer, sustainable alternatives.

The EPA's PFAS policy shift: A long time coming?

The EPA's directive, announced on February 6, 2025, targets Inhance Technologies, whose plastic containers, often used in fast food and takeout, were found to contain PFAS. These chemicals, called "forever" because they persist in the environment and human bodies, have been tied to cancer, immune disorders and organ damage in numerous studies. The agency's sudden crackdown follows years of criticism from environmental groups, which argue the EPA delayed stricter PFAS regulations under industry pressure.

"This is a critical step, but it's only the beginning," said Olga Naidenko, senior science advisor at the Environmental Working Group. "The EPA must now focus on a full phaseout of PFAS in consumer products, not incremental bans."

The decision comes amid mounting global scrutiny. In 2026, the European Union will implement a ban on PFAS in food packaging under its Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), while U.S. states like California and New York have already enacted bans. However, experts warn that without unified federal action, consumers will remain at risk.

Science breakthrough: Fluorine-free polymers shine new light

In parallel with regulatory shifts, scientists are racing to develop PFAS-free alternatives. Researchers at Case Western Reserve University recently unveiled a new polymer that avoids fluorine entirely while retaining flexible electronic properties. The material, called FE-2SO2P, could revolutionize fields like wearable sensors and bioengineering.