The EU Commission’s services have proposed a non-binding guide on the PFHxA restriction to the CARACAL expert group. This restriction, effective from 10 October 2027, targets the marketing and use of products containing PFHxA for the general public. However, it does not apply to professional use in industrial activities.
Environmental NGOs have raised concerns, noting that consumers might still access professional-use products, potentially exposing the public to PFHxA and reducing the restriction’s effectiveness.
CARACAL, which includes national authorities and stakeholders, will discuss and possibly endorse the guide at their meeting on 18 December.
PFHxA is a fluorinated carboxylic acid derivative of hexanoic acid. It is part of the larger group of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) known for their resistance to heat, oil, stains, grease, and water. is a breakdown product of other PFAS used in various consumer products, including stain-resistant fabrics, paper food packaging, and carpets. It is also used in manufacturing photographic film and as a substitute for longer-chain perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acids in consumer products. People can be exposed to PFHxA through various routes, including inhalation of indoor or outdoor air, ingestion of contaminated drinking water and food, and dermal contact with PFHxA-containing products.
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