Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, known as PFAS, are widely used chemicals, components of which break down very slowly over time, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. Because of their widespread use and persistence in the environment, many PFAS are found in the blood of people and animals all over the world and are present at low levels in a variety of food products and in the environment.
Currently, there is a patchwork of state regulations addressing PFAS, and EPA’s efforts to address PFAS use are ongoing. In light of this, manufacturers of products that employ PFAS — including the oxygen absorbent pads used in packages of many meat products — are looking for alternatives.