Can PFAS show up in food packaging?

What's actually in it

PFAS are per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. Some food-contact materials use them because they help resist grease and water.

Packaging is not all the same. PFAS levels can vary by material, coating, and how the package is made. Hot, greasy food in coated packaging is still a practical place to reduce contact when you can.

What the research says

A 2026 study in Chemosphere tested 66 paper and plastic food-contact packaging materials from US grocery-store foods. Researchers looked for 73 PFAS.

At least one PFAS was found in 64% of the packaging samples. The total PFAS range was 0.11 to 16.3 ng/g. The most common PFAS was 6:2 diPAP, found in 61% of samples.

The same study also reported no evidence of PFAS transfer from the tested packaging to the paired food samples from the earlier study. So the honest takeaway is not panic. It is to reduce extra food contact with coated packaging where it is easy.

Move leftovers into glass, ceramic, or stainless steel. Do not microwave food in takeout wrappers or coated packaging. For packed lunches, use glass storage at home and stainless steel or other durable containers when they fit the meal.