Do paper plates and food wrappers contain PFAS forever chemicals?
Yes, some do. A 2026 study found PFAS in tested food-contact paper products, with PFHxA, PFBA, and PFHxS among the highest measured compounds.
What it is
PFAS are a large group of chemicals used to resist oil, grease, and water. Some paper plates, bakery bags, takeout wrappers, and molded fiber bowls use coatings that help stop grease from soaking through.
The problem is simple: food touches the coating. Hot or greasy food can increase contact with the paper surface.
What the study found
A 2026 study in Science of the Total Environment tested commercial composts, soil amendments, biosolid fertilizers, and 5 common food-contact paper products.
In the food-contact paper products, the highest PFAS concentrations were reported for PFHxA, PFBA, and PFHxS. The study said conventional coating materials in food-contact paper can be a meaningful PFAS source.
This does not prove every paper plate or wrapper contains PFAS. It does show that paper food packaging is not automatically a safer choice just because it is paper.
What to do
Use porcelain, ceramic, glass, or stainless steel plates when you can. For takeout, move hot or greasy food onto a real plate at home.
If you buy disposable foodware, look for clear PFAS-free claims from the manufacturer. Avoid slick, grease-resistant paper for hot oily foods when a reusable dish is available.
The research at a glance
| Study | Journal | Year |
|---|---|---|
| PFAS in commercially available organic amendments and food-contact paper products | Sci Total Environ | 2026 |