November 30, 2023 Eliminating Forever Chemicals Begins With the Spec

The first step for companies looking to track and report any presence of forever chemicals begins with digitizing specification data.

by Matthew Wright, CEO, Specright

Within the last year alone, industries have made significant strides in minimizing the presence of “forever chemicals,” scientifically known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), in various products and packaging. A pivotal moment occurred when California Attorney General, Rob Bonta, issued an enforcement advisory letter, prompting manufacturers, distributors, and sellers in the food packaging and cookware realm to disclose the presence of these harmful chemicals.

This action indicates a broader regulatory effort to tackle PFAS and is just one example of how regulators are working to minimize the impact of these chemicals. These restrictions will only become more prevalent in the coming years as companies must deploy new practices to accurately track and report PFAS traces within their products, packaging, and even the wider supply chain. Let’s delve deeper into what these chemicals look like, how specification data can help manage risk, and the strategies required to comply with evolving regulatory standards.

PFAS explained across products and packaging

Forever chemicals, the incredibly resilient compounds that are highly resistant to degradation and do not break down easily over time, are not new to the products and packaging industries as they have existed since the mid-20th century. However, recent years have heightened concerns about these synthetic substances as evidence mounts on their detrimental impact on both humans and the environment. The widespread presence of PFAS in soil and water for decades, along with its association with immune system suppression in individuals, has sparked an outcry for companies to find better ways to package products.

PFAS are used in various forms of packaging but are particularly prevalent in food packaging. From pizza boxes and takeout containers to fast food wrappers and microwave popcorn bags, PFAS is a popular choice because it helps companies ensure that food products don’t leak while providing a protective barrier against liquid and oil. Yet, that convenience comes at a cost, and despite the functionality and performance benefits, it’s become imperative for industries to actively seek alternative packaging materials, prioritizing consumer safety and sustainability.

Risk management strategies begin with digitized specification data

Companies today must begin to assess their own risk with a deep dive and evaluation into the presence of PFAS in any current business operations. Risk management comes down to a company’s ability to accurately track and report how they use PFAS, which can be done through digitized specifications.

By keeping track of specification data – the critical DNA-level information of products and packaging – companies can clearly identify the use of PFAS in their supply chains, assess the risks associated and make informed decisions to eliminate them. Digitized specifications can also help find suitable alternatives, as companies can easily search for materials and coatings that provide similar properties and functions, such as biodegradable or plant-based materials, in an attempt to limit PFAS use. Having all critical specification data in one centralized location will make eliminating PFAS possible for organizations. 

Consumers require greater transparency

With evolving regulations also comes an increased consumer desire for greater transparency from the companies they purchase from. Businesses that can’t accurately track and report on PFAS levels or continue to disregard growing consumer concerns are in a spot to lose their customer base.

Consumers will search for PFAS-free packaging, especially in food and beverage products, to ensure their families’ safety when digesting any products. Consumers who prioritize environmental sustainability might start to avoid buying packaged products containing PFAS to eliminate negative impacts on the ecosystem. In fact, a recent survey from my company Specright revealed that 74% of consumers surveyed indicated they are more likely to purchase from a company that is transparent about its sustainability practices (i.e., claiming carbon-neutrality, phasing out single-use plastics, using terms such as ‘eco’ or ‘biodegradable,’ etc.). It’s no secret that consumer demands often drive the market, and companies that can respond with PFAS-free options are likely to gain a competitive edge in the market.

Conclusion

PFAS have substantial impacts across the board, and as awareness surrounding these chemicals grows, so too do regulations. It’s imperative that businesses take the necessary steps to remove these chemicals from their operations entirely, starting with specifications. By digitizing crucial specification data, companies are able to track and report on PFAS and mitigate risks to the brand, population and environment. Failure to comply with regulations can lead to serious consequences, including hefty penalties, fines and tarnished brand reputations. The time to eliminate forever chemicals is now and it begins with spec data.

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