EU experts have stated that PFAS pose a growing risk to humans and the environment. A committee has called for broad restrictions on these so-called forever chemicals, with some targeted exceptions. The committee, one of two asked by the EU's chemicals agency Echa to investigate PFAS, said in a statement that PFAS are very persistent, remain in the environment for a long time, travel long distances, contaminate groundwater and soil, and some cause serious health problems such as cancer and reproductive harm.
The committee's recommendation to the EU is for broad restrictions with certain targeted exceptions. The EU is expected to soon propose a ban on PFAS in everyday goods like clothing and pizza boxes. The exceptions are expected to apply to areas such as the medical field.
PFAS, or poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances, is a collective term for around 4,700 different substances.