Maine PFAS Packaging Ban Takes Effect
by Sara Osorio, Manager, EHS & Sustainability Jul 2, 2026

Maine’s ban on intentionally added PFAS in certain food packaging took effect on May 25, 2026, adding another compliance consideration for printers and packaging converters that produce or supply food packaging into the state.

PFAS, often referred to as “forever chemicals,” have long been used in packaging to provide resistance to grease, oil, water, heat, and stains. However, because the chemicals do not readily break down in the environment, they can persist over time and have been associated with a range of environmental and health concerns.

The new restrictions prohibit the sale or distribution of many food packaging products containing intentionally added PFAS. Covered packaging includes common food-service items such as pizza boxes, sandwich wrappers, paper plates, bowls, takeout containers, food boats, sleeves, bags, and liners.

For printers and packaging converters, the impact is mostly requirements of material verification and supply chain communication. Below are some important steps for printers and converters to take:

  • Verify all materials used in production. Check substrates, inks, coatings, adhesives, and any other relevant materials to ensure they don’t contain intentionally added PFAS.
  • Request and maintain supplier documentation. Obtain written confirmation from all suppliers that materials are PFAS-free (where required) and keep records on file.
  • Update purchasing guidelines. Revise internal specs to explicitly prohibit intentionally added PFAS in applicable materials.
  • Communicate with suppliers. Clearly communicate PFAS compliance expectations and ensure alignment across your supply chain.
  • Implement ongoing compliance checks. Regularly review materials and supplier certifications and supporting documentation to stay compliant.
  • Lab testing. Consider conducting laboratory tests on random samples of finished products or input materials to ensure compliance.

Packaging companies that verify materials, strengthen supplier communication, and document compliance will be better prepared not only for Maine’s requirements, but for what comes next. This ban reflects a broader shift, as more states move to restrict PFAS in various packaging and consumer products. As a result, PFAS compliance is becoming less of a one-state issue and more of an ongoing product stewardship responsibility.

In this article, Sara Osorio, Manager, EHS & Sustainability, PRINTING United Alliance, discusses Maine’s PFAS packaging ban. More information on sustainability can be found at Business Excellence-EHS Affairs, or reach out to Sara directly if you have questions about how these issues may affect your business: sosorio@printing.org.   
 
To become a member of the Alliance and learn more about how our subject matter experts can assist your company with services and resources such as those mentioned in this article, please contact the Alliance membership team: 888-385-3588 / membership@printing.org.

Our editorial content is edited and approved by humans. While staff may use AI tools in the brainstorming or research stage to generate ideas, provide background context, or suggest phrasing, humans always verify facts, evaluate context, and make final decisions. We may also use AI to enhance user experiences (e.g., creating summaries or SEO suggestions), but any such output is reviewed by humans and, when appropriate, labeled as AI-assisted.

Business Chemicals Maine Packaging
Sara Osorio Manager, EHS & Sustainability
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Sara Osorio is the Manager for Environmental, Health and Safety (EHS) and Sustainability at PRINTING United Alliance. Her primary responsibility is to assist members with EHS regulatory compliance, sustainability, and EHS consulting. Sara also monitors the EHS regulatory activities at the federal and state-level that impact the printing industry including those occurring at Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA), the Department of Transportation (DOT), and other agencies. She develops guidance material for members, gives presentations, and writes articles on EHS regulations and sustainability issues. She also supports the Sustainable Green Printing Partnership and Alliance members in their efforts to certify printing operations in sustainable manufacturing.

Sara received a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies from Florida International University and is pursuing and Master of Science in Sustainable Management from the University of Wisconsin – Green Bay.

Speaking Topics:

  • Regulatory compliance and sustainability
  • Webinars on a wide variety of EHS related topics
  • Customized seminars and workshops
  • Employee training on safety and environmental compliance

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