Quick answer: From 12 August 2026, the EU PPWR restricts PFAS in food-contact packaging to very low limits (reported as 25 ppb per individual substance and 250 ppb total). Molded-fiber and paper packs that historically relied on fluorinated coatings for moisture and grease resistance now need a PFAS-free way to manage moisture. A compostable fiber desiccant is inherently PFAS-free — natural plant fiber, FDA food-contact, certified compostable — so it adds moisture protection without adding a restricted substance.
PFAS — the so-called forever chemicals — have quietly done moisture and grease duty in food packaging for decades. PPWR is closing that door, and it catches a lot of brands by surprise: the fiber and paper packs many switched to for sustainability reasons may themselves carry fluorinated coatings.
The PFAS problem hiding in fiber packaging
Molded-fiber trays, paper bowls and kraft pouches often look like the clean, natural choice. But as packaging-compliance specialists warn, that appearance is not proof: fiber and paper have historically been treated with fluorinated chemistry to resist oil and moisture. A buyer cannot assume a fiber pack is PFAS-free just because it is not plastic.
What PPWR requires
Under Regulation (EU) 2025/40, food-contact packaging placed on the EU market from 12 August 2026 must meet strict PFAS limits, reported across compliance guidance as 25 ppb for any individual substance and 250 ppb in total. Packaging that cannot demonstrate compliance cannot be sold. Every packaging item must also carry a Declaration of Conformity covering substance restrictions.
Manage moisture inside the pack, not with a coating
There is a design lesson in the PFAS restriction: instead of coating the packaging wall to fight moisture and grease, manage the moisture inside the pack. An in-pack desiccant absorbs the water vapour that would otherwise force a barrier coating, which lets a brand specify a simpler, uncoated, recyclable pack and still protect a hygroscopic powder.
Why fiber desiccant is inherently PFAS-free
ATMOSIScience fiber desiccant is built from natural plant fiber with a compostable film — there is no fluorinated chemistry in the product. It is FDA food-contact grade (documented to 21 CFR 175.300), certified compostable to ASTM D6400 and EN 13432, and backed by substance documentation available to compliance teams on request. In other words, it solves the moisture problem that coatings used to handle, without reintroducing a restricted substance.
What to verify with any desiccant supplier
Before August 2026, compliance teams should ask each desiccant and packaging supplier for written confirmation of no intentionally added PFAS, food-contact documentation, and compostability or recyclability certificates that match the pack’s end-of-life route. Treat the desiccant as part of the packaging system the Declaration of Conformity must cover.
Frequently asked questions
Does PPWR’s PFAS limit apply to the desiccant too? The desiccant is part of the food-contact packaging system, so its substances matter. A fluorine-free fiber desiccant keeps that part of the system clean.
Is fiber desiccant certified PFAS-free? It contains no fluorinated chemistry by composition; substance documentation is available for compliance files.
When does the PFAS limit start? 12 August 2026, with no grandfathering for existing stock.
Related reading: why weaker PPWR barriers mean more desiccant, what brands shipping to the EU must do before August 2026, and food-contact desiccant and FDA 21 CFR. Browse the fiber desiccant range.
Building a PFAS-free packaging file?
Ask ATMOSIScience for fiber desiccant substance and food-contact documentation, and a free sample sized to your powder and pack. The team usually replies the same business day.
