In an article published on January 10, 2018, the industry association American Chemistry Council (ACC) informed that the FluoroCouncil, representing manufacturers of fluorinated chemicals, launched a website focusing on “the benefits and safety” of fluorinated chemistries.
“The new website tells the story of this diverse group of chemicals, including the fact that they can be used safely and are an important part of modern life,” the FluoroCouncil stated. Specifically per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are used in “a variety of products that industry and consumers rely on every day.” The website particularly “highlights and explains the large body of research on many of the newer, short-chain fluorinated chemistries currently on the market.” The website also includes a section dedicated to the application of PFASs in food packaging.
Long-chain PFASs such as perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS, CAS 1763-23-1) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA, CAS 335-67-1) have been widely used in a variety of products, including food contact materials (FCMs), for their water-, grease-, and stain-repellent properties. In recent years, PFOS and PFOA have been the subject of phase-out initiatives due to their persistence in the environment, low elimination rates in humans, and associated adverse health effects. Short-chain PFASs are used as replacements and promoted as safer alternatives. However, scientific research indicates that they are similarly persistent and toxic compared to long-chain PFASs (FPF reported).
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ACC (January 10, 2018). “FluoroCouncil launches new website highlighting benefits of fluorinated chemistries.”
Julie A. Miller (January 11, 2018). “U.S. FluoroCouncil website aims to counteract mounting controversy.” Chemical Watch
