Update, October 22, 2025: On October 13, 2025, Governor Gavin Newsom issued a veto on this bill. “I appreciate efforts to protect the health and safety of consumers, and while this bill is well-intentioned, I am deeply concerned about the impact this bill would have on the availability of affordable options in cooking products,” Newsom justified his reasons for not signing the bill.
On September 12, 2025, the California Legislature approved Senate Bill 682 (SB 682), which seeks to restrict the use of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in certain consumer products. The measure is now headed to Governor Gavin Newsom, who has until October 12 to either sign or veto the bill. If no action is taken, the bill will become law without his signature.
The legislation establishes phase-out timelines for PFAS in specific product categories. Beginning in 2028, the distribution or sale of food packaging containing intentionally added PFAS would be prohibited in California. A longer transition period applies to cookware, with restrictions on products containing added PFAS taking effect in 2030.
PFAS are a class of synthetic chemicals commonly used for their resistance to heat, water, and oil. They have been incorporated into a wide range of consumer goods, but their persistence in the environment and potential health concerns have led to increased regulatory scrutiny across the globe (FPF reported and here).
A similar bill, SB 1148, that targets bisphenols and phthalates in food packaging is still being discussed in California’s Senate.
References
California Legislature (September 9, 2025). “SB-682 Environmental health: product safety: perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances.”
Bobby DeMuro (September 15, 2025). “California legislature approves PFAS in products ban, other chemical bills.” Chemical Watch News & Insight
Cole Rosengren (September 15, 2025). “California lawmakers ban PFAS in food packaging, limit microbeads.” WasteDive
Office of the Governor (October 13, 2025). “Reply to the Members of the California State Senate regarding SB 682.”
Read more
Sarah Metz and Tracy J. Wholf (September 13, 2025). “California legislature votes to phase out “forever chemicals” in cookware and other household items.” CBS News
