PFAS in Consumer Products are Subject of CPSC Inquiry

The Consumer Product Safety Commission is looking for input on the use of so-called “forever chemicals” in consumer products. The CPSC notes that this request for information does not constitute or propose regulatory action but is instead intended to inform the agency and the public.

Per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are manufactured chemicals that contain multiple fluorine atoms attached to carbon chains. The Environmental Protection Agency and other data sources indicate that there are thousands of different PFAS that could be registered on U.S. or global chemical inventories and are potentially in commerce, hundreds of PFAS with reported use information from the U.S. or international sources, and several dozen PFAS that are more commonly measured in consumer products, the environment, or in people.

PFAS have a variety of applications, including in non-stick cookware; water-repellent and stain resistant clothing, carpets, and other fabrics; some cosmetics; some firefighting foams; and common home products such as cleaning supplies, waxes, coatings, adhesives, paints, and sealants. However, the CPSC’s request for information concerns only consumer products, which includes products used in or around the home or school that are subject to CPSC jurisdiction. Cosmetics, drugs, and pesticides generally are not within CPSC’s jurisdiction.

The CPSC is requesting information on the actual or potential use or presence of PFAS in consumer products, potential human exposures to PFAS associated with consumer product use, and potential adverse human health effects associated with exposures to PFAS from their use in consumer products. Importers, consumers, manufacturers, government agencies, non-governmental organizations, researchers, and all other stakeholders may submit information through Nov. 20.