Is Perfluorinated Compounds (PFAS) Safe During Pregnancy?
The facts: Perfluorinated Compounds (PFAS) is banned in 2 countries/regions (including European Union (broadly restricting PFAS in food contact materials since 2020; EU-wide PFAS restriction proposal under REACH), Denmark (banned PFAS in all food packaging 2020)), though the FDA still allows it in the US. We can't tell you whether it's safe for your pregnancy — that's a conversation for your OB-GYN or midwife. What we can do is show you the regulatory facts and flag Perfluorinated Compounds (PFAS) on any product's label so you can decide with your provider. Commonly found in: Grease-resistant fast food wrappers (some), Microwave popcorn bags (some), Pizza boxes (some).
TL;DR: Perfluorinated Compounds (PFAS) is banned in the EU and allowed in the US. Here's what to know if you're pregnant.
Perfluorinated Compounds (PFAS): regulatory status at a glance
| EU status | Banned |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level (regulatory) | — |
| Where it shows up | Grease-resistant fast food wrappers (some), Microwave popcorn bags (some), Pizza boxes (some), Non-stick cookware coatings (Teflon/PTFE), Food processing equipment coatings, Tap water near industrial/military sites |
What is Perfluorinated Compounds (PFAS)?
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large family of synthetic chemicals characterized by extremely strong carbon-fluorine bonds. They are used in food packaging (grease-resistant coatings), non-stick cookware (PTFE/Teflon), food processing equipment, firefighting foam, and many industrial applications. The 'forever chemicals' moniker reflects their extreme environmental persistence.
Why is Perfluorinated Compounds (PFAS) used in food?
PFAS provide grease resistance, water repellency, and heat stability in food packaging (fast food wrappers, microwave popcorn bags, pizza boxes) and non-stick cookware. They are also used in food processing equipment to prevent sticking. Their unique chemical stability makes them irreplaceable in some applications.
What regulators have flagged about Perfluorinated Compounds (PFAS)
PFAS are among the most extensively studied and harmful groups of synthetic chemicals in the modern environment. Their unique carbon-fluorine bond stability means they do not break down in the environment or in human body tissues — contributing to bioaccumulation over a lifetime. Health effects documented in human epidemiological studies include: - Cancer: PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid) and PFOS (perfluorooctanesulfonic acid) have been associated with kidney cancer, testicular cancer, thyroid cancer, bladder cancer, and non-Hodgkin lymphoma in occupationally exposed workers and community members with contaminated drinking water. IARC classified PFOA as Group 1 (human carcinogen) in 2023 and PFOS as Group 2B. - Endocrine disruption: PFAS disrupt thyroid hormone signaling and sex hormone balance. Multiple studies find associations between PFAS exposure and hypothyroidism, early puberty in girls, and reduced sperm quality. - Immune suppression: studies have found that PFAS exposure is associated with reduced vaccine response in children and adults, suggesting PFAS may impair immune function. - Developmental effects: prenatal PFAS exposure has been associated with lower birth weight, developmental delays, and reduced immune response in infants. - Cholesterol: PFAS exposure consistently raises LDL cholesterol levels, increasing cardiovascular disease risk. The 2023 EPA MCLG (maximum contaminant level goal) for PFOA and PFOS is zero — reflecting the agency's conclusion that there is no safe level. The EPA set enforceable MCLs in drinking water in 2024. The DuPont/3M PFOA/PFOS contamination of drinking water in communities near Teflon manufacturing facilities led to a $671 million settlement (DuPont/Chemours, 2017) and $10.3 billion 3M settlement (2023) — among the largest environmental contamination settlements in history.
For educational use only. This page summarizes the regulatory status of Perfluorinated Compounds (PFAS) with citations to the primary sources below. It is not medical advice and is not pregnancy-specific medical guidance. Consult your OB-GYN or midwife for decisions about your pregnancy.
Pregnancy-conscious swaps free from Perfluorinated Compounds (PFAS) →
Audited products that don't contain Perfluorinated Compounds (PFAS).
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Perfluorinated Compounds (PFAS) and pregnancy: common questions
Is Perfluorinated Compounds (PFAS) banned anywhere?
Yes. Perfluorinated Compounds (PFAS) is banned in European Union (broadly restricting PFAS in food contact materials since 2020; EU-wide PFAS restriction proposal under REACH), Denmark (banned PFAS in all food packaging 2020); restricted in United States (EPA has set maximum contaminant levels for 6 PFAS in drinking water in 2024; FDA has been working with industry to phase out certain PFAS from food packaging). The FDA still allows it in the US.
Should I avoid Perfluorinated Compounds (PFAS) during pregnancy?
That's a decision for you and your OB-GYN or midwife — we don't give medical advice. What we can tell you is the regulatory status above. Many people choose to limit additives during pregnancy out of caution; bring this page and its sources to your next appointment.
What foods contain Perfluorinated Compounds (PFAS)?
Commonly found in Grease-resistant fast food wrappers (some), Microwave popcorn bags (some), Pizza boxes (some), Non-stick cookware coatings (Teflon/PTFE), Food processing equipment coatings, Tap water near industrial/military sites. Scan any product's barcode to check its label for Perfluorinated Compounds (PFAS).
What can I use instead of Perfluorinated Compounds (PFAS)?
PFAS-free food packaging uses plant fiber, wax-coated paper, or alternative polymer coatings. Many fast food chains including McDonald's, Burger King, and Whole Foods Market have committed to eliminating PFAS from their packaging. Cast iron See the pregnancy-conscious swaps below.
Scan any product's barcode and instantly see if it contains Perfluorinated Compounds (PFAS) or other ingredients restricted overseas.
Scan a product free →Other ingredients to check during pregnancy
Sources
- EPA PFAS Maximum Contaminant Levels in Drinking Water 2024 — EPA
- IARC classification of PFOA as Group 1 carcinogen (2023) — IARC
- USRTK on PFAS in Food Packaging — US Right to Know
- EWG PFAS Tap Water Database — EWG
- DuPont PFOA Settlement 2017 — EPA
Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/10/2026.