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Answer: Yes — GenX is banned in 1 country/region including European Union. The FDA still allows it in US food. Risk level: high. Commonly found in: fast-food wrappers, microwave popcorn bags, molded fiber bowls.
TL;DR: GenX is banned in the EU but allowed in the US (pfas in packaging).
Reviewed for clarity & usefulness by the BannedPantry Parent Panel
CAS 13252-13-6.
Other names: HFPO-DA, hexafluoropropylene oxide dimer acid
| 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 | 13252-13-6 |
GenX is a replacement PFAS used in fluoropolymer manufacturing and packaging coatings.
PFAS are used to make packaging grease-, water- and stain-resistant.
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.
For educational use only. This page summarizes the regulatory status of GenXwith citations to the primary sources below. It is not medical advice. Regulatory status is not the same as a proven health effect — read the cited sources for their exact wording, and consult a doctor for decisions about your or your family's health.
Choose PFAS-free packaging, avoid grease-resistant wrappers, and favor brands with PFAS-free pledges. BannedPantry flags packaging chemistries of concern.
Yes — GenX is banned in the European Union, while it remains allowed for use in the United States.
GenX is allowed in the United States. US regulators have not imposed the same restrictions that apply across the EU.
Independent reviews flag GenX for documented health or environmental risks, which is why EU regulators acted while the US has not.
Choose certified-organic or EU-imported products, check labels, and scan barcodes with BannedPantry to flag GenX instantly.
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