Is 6:2 FTOH Banned? EU vs US Status, Risks & Where It Hides
TL;DR: 6:2 FTOH is banned in the EU but allowed in the US (pfas in packaging).
CAS 647-42-7.
Other names: 6:2 fluorotelomer alcohol
Is 6:2 FTOH banned in the EU?
| EU status | Banned |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level | high |
| Where it shows up | fast-food wrappers, microwave popcorn bags, molded fiber bowls, grease-resistant takeout containers |
| CAS number | 647-42-7 |
What is 6:2 FTOH?
6:2 FTOH is a fluorotelomer used in grease-resistant paper and food packaging.
Why is 6:2 FTOH used in food?
PFAS are used to make packaging grease-, water- and stain-resistant.
Is 6:2 FTOH dangerous? Documented risks
PFAS are persistent 'forever chemicals' linked to cancer, immune and thyroid effects. The EU is phasing out PFAS in food-contact materials; several are banned, while US federal limits lag behind.
Common US products containing 6:2 FTOH
- fast-food wrappers
- microwave popcorn bags
- molded fiber bowls
- grease-resistant takeout containers
How to avoid 6:2 FTOH: safer alternatives
Choose PFAS-free packaging, avoid grease-resistant wrappers, and favor brands with PFAS-free pledges. BannedPantry flags packaging chemistries of concern.
Frequently asked questions about 6:2 FTOH
Is 6:2 FTOH banned in the EU?
Yes — 6:2 FTOH is banned in the European Union, while it remains allowed for use in the United States.
Is 6:2 FTOH allowed in the US?
6:2 FTOH is allowed in the United States. US regulators have not imposed the same restrictions that apply across the EU.
Why is 6:2 FTOH a concern?
Independent reviews flag 6:2 FTOH for documented health or environmental risks, which is why EU regulators acted while the US has not.
How do I avoid 6:2 FTOH?
Choose certified-organic or EU-imported products, check labels, and scan barcodes with BannedPantry to flag 6:2 FTOH instantly.
Scan any product's barcode and instantly see if it contains 6:2 FTOH or other ingredients banned overseas.
Scan a product free →Related pfas in packaging
Avoiding banned food additives? Check your beauty shelf, too.
Sources
- Chemicals in cosmetics — CHEM Trust
- EFSA food additives — EFSA
- FDA Food Additives — U.S. FDA
Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/11/2026.