Several major economies have recently taken new action to restrict per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), covering firefighting foams, food packaging and cookware, in a clear sign that global chemicals regulation is tightening.

EU moves to restrict PFAS in firefighting foams

On 3 October 2025 the European Commission formally published Regulation (EU) 2025/1988 amending Annex XVII of REACH to prohibit the placing on the market and use of PFAS in firefighting foams.

Key content and transition periods:

Full ban. From 23 October 2030, firefighting foams with a total PFAS concentration of 1 mg/l or more may not be sold or used.

Grace period for specific facilities. High-risk industrial facilities covered by the Seveso III Directive, offshore platforms, certain vessels and military uses may benefit from a grace period until 23 October 2035, under strict conditions.

Portable extinguishers. Portable extinguishers and alcohol-resistant foams may be used until 23 April 2027.

Until 23 April 2027 fire services may use existing stock for training and testing, but must minimise environmental releases and incinerate PFAS-containing waste at high temperature of at least 1100 degrees Celsius.

UK consults on restricting PFAS in firefighting foams

In October 2025 the UK Health and Safety Executive opened a six-month public consultation on restricting PFAS in firefighting foams under UK REACH, running until 18 February 2026.

Key points of the proposal:

Broad scope. The proposal covers the manufacture, placing on the market, use, storage and disposal of PFAS in firefighting foams.

Transition periods. To give industry enough time to switch to alternatives, the proposal includes transition periods tailored to different operators.

Next steps. After the consultation closes, HSE will review the responses, form final recommendations and submit them to government decision makers.

California restricts PFAS in food packaging and cookware

On 12 September 2025 the California Legislature passed Senate Bill 682, which restricts intentionally added PFAS in consumer products and awaits the Governor's signature.

Phased implementation:

Food packaging. From 2028, food packaging containing intentionally added PFAS may not be distributed or sold in California.

Cookware. Restrictions on cookware containing intentionally added PFAS take effect in 2030.

Canada launches phased management of PFAS risks

In October 2025 Environment and Climate Change Canada consulted on the first phase of its PFAS risk management plan, with comments due by 25 November 2025.

A three-phase strategy:

Phase 1: firefighting foams. The first objective is to tackle contamination from aqueous film-forming foams, one of the largest environmental sources of PFAS. The plan aims to eliminate their remaining unregulated uses and promote safer alternatives.

Phase 2: restricting non-essential uses. Controls will extend to PFAS in non-essential uses such as consumer products.

Phase 3: assessing essential uses. Essential uses for which no feasible alternative currently exists, such as certain perfluorooctane sulfonate applications, will be assessed to find safe long-term solutions.

NTEK risk note

These developments show that the global regulatory net around these "forever chemicals" is tightening quickly. Companies should follow the specific requirements and transition arrangements in each market closely, and plan supply chains and product formulations in advance to meet an increasingly strict compliance environment.