Understanding PFAS

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a family of ~12,000 synthetic chemicals used for water resistance, non-stick coatings, stain resistance, and grease repellence. They persist in the environment, bioaccumulate, and are linked to cancers, immune dysfunction, and developmental harm.

Most-affected product categories:

• Textiles and apparel (water-resistant outerwear, school uniforms)
• Food packaging (grease-resistant wrappers, microwave popcorn bags)
• Children's products (raincoats, school supplies)
• Non-stick cookware
• Cosmetics (long-wear, water-resistant)
• Furniture and carpets (stain-resistant treatments)

Key state laws (Aleph tracks 7):

• California (AB 1817, AB 2771) — apparel and cosmetics PFAS bans with disclosure
• Maine (38 MRSA §1614) — phased sales bans on intentionally-added PFAS: cookware, cosmetics, cleaning products, juvenile products, textiles and more from 1 Jan 2026; artificial turf and severe-weather outdoor apparel from 2029; all remaining products from 2032. Notification to Maine DEP is required only for products the department has determined to be a currently unavoidable use — there is no general annual disclosure. On request you must produce a certificate of no intentionally-added PFAS within 30 days
• New York (S 6291) — apparel ban effective 2025
• Washington (SCPA) — priority products list with phased restrictions
• Colorado (HB 22-1345) — phased product bans across cookware, cosmetics, textiles, and food packaging
• Connecticut (HB 6486) — intentionally-added PFAS prohibited in food packaging
• Minnesota (Minn. Stat. §116.943, "Amara's Law") — 11 product categories banned from 1 Jan 2025, all remaining products from 2032, and a report to the MPCA covering every product with intentionally-added PFAS manufactured after 1 July 2023 — due 15 September 2026

WARNING: TOF (total organofluorine) testing is the standard screening method. Cost is typically $200–$400 per SKU; turnaround is 7–14 business days.