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Answer: Yes — PFOS 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: PFOS is banned in the EU but allowed in the US (pfas in packaging).
Reviewed for clarity & usefulness by the BannedPantry Parent Panel
CAS 1763-23-1.
Other names: perfluorooctane sulfonate
| 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 | 1763-23-1 |
PFOS is a long-chain PFAS used historically in food-contact coatings and stain repellents.
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 PFOSwith 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 — PFOS is banned in the European Union, while it remains allowed for use in the United States.
PFOS is allowed in the United States. US regulators have not imposed the same restrictions that apply across the EU.
Independent reviews flag PFOS for documented health or environmental risks, which is why EU regulators acted while the US has not.
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Audited products that don't contain PFOS.
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