PFAS Ban in France: Why Is the U.S. Still Tiptoeing Around Toxic Chemicals?

The people of France raise their voices: Pas de PFAS! A growing movement demands safer products and cleaner water—no more forever chemicals

France just made a bold move against a group of toxic chemicals that have been flying under the radar for far too long. Known as PFAS, or “forever chemicals,” these synthetic substances are used in everything from waterproof jackets to nonstick frying pans. And now? They’re finally being shown the door — at least in parts of Europe.

But across the pond, the U.S. is still hesitating, and the gap between the two countries is getting harder to ignore.

Let’s Talk About PFAS (and Why You Should Care)

PFAS stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances — a long name for a very persistent problem. These man-made chemicals are added to products for their slick, nonstick, stain-resistant superpowers. You’ll find them in:

• Takeout wrappers

• Cookware

• Rain gear

• Makeup

• Firefighting foam

• And, believe it or not, dental floss

The problem is, they don’t go away. Not in nature, not in the human body. Once they’re here, they’re here for good. And the more we’re exposed, the more they build up in our systems.

Health experts have linked PFAS exposure to all kinds of problems, including:

• Certain cancers

• Hormone imbalances

• Weakened immune function

• Liver damage

• Low birth weights

• Higher cholesterol

Even tiny amounts may pose a risk, which is why scientists and advocates have been sounding the alarm.

France Just Drew a Line in the Sand

In a sweeping vote, French lawmakers approved a national ban that targets PFAS in a wide range of products. Starting in 2026, companies won’t be allowed to make or sell items like cosmetics, clothing, or ski wax that contain these chemicals. By 2030, the restrictions will cover all textiles unless they’re used in defense or other essential industries.

The move was backed by public concern. PFAS has shown up in drinking water across France, including in major cities like Paris. While the legislation doesn’t cover everything (food packaging and cookware are still allowed for now), it’s a strong step forward. The idea is to stay in line with broader European Union rules currently in development.

How Does the U.S. Compare?

Spoiler alert: we’re not moving quite as fast.

The Environmental Protection Agency recently set drinking water limits for a handful of PFAS compounds (compliance deadline extended to 2031), and several states have passed laws targeting specific uses. But compared to Europe’s big-picture approach, U.S. regulations are still piecemeal and slow.

Why the holdup? A few reasons:

• U.S. law tends to treat chemicals as innocent until proven harmful

• Many industries rely heavily on PFAS and lobby against restrictions

• There’s limited public pressure, since most people still don’t know what PFAS are

• Regulators often wait for more evidence instead of acting on early warning signs

Some states, like Minnesota, are taking matters into their own hands. Their new law bans PFAS in several product categories and requires companies to start reporting when they use these chemicals. It’s progress, but it’s not yet national. (See announcement from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency)

What You Can Do in the Meantime

You don’t have to wait for legislation to start making better choices. Here are a few easy ways to limit PFAS in your daily life:

1. Choose Safer ProductsLook for items labeled PFAS-free. Focus on cookware, food containers, outdoor gear, and personal care items.

2. Upgrade Your Water FilterInstall a filter that’s certified to reduce PFAS. Reverse osmosis and activated carbon options are the most effective.

3. Be Cautious with TakeoutGrease-proof packaging is a common source of exposure. Ask restaurants if they use safer alternatives or bring your own container when possible.

4. Ask Questions and Share InfoTalk to brands and businesses. Let them know this matters to you. The more people ask, the more pressure companies feel to make changes.

5. Get InvolvedSupport groups pushing for PFAS bans and clean water policies. Contact your representatives. Join or share petitions. Every voice helps.

The Big Picture

France’s PFAS ban may not be perfect, but it’s a powerful example of how governments can respond to public health concerns with real action. Meanwhile, in the U.S., many of us are still being exposed without knowing it — and without many tools to fight back.

But consumer awareness is growing. Science is on our side. And every time someone chooses a PFAS-free product, filters their water, or asks a company to do better, we get a little closer to the cleaner, safer future we deserve.

If you have questions, anything to add to this topic, or have found anything related to PFAS that others should know, reach out and share it with me.

About the Author: Erik is the writer behind The Forever Chemical Files, a blog about living with less exposure to PFAS (forever chemicals). After seeing cancer affect his family, he set out to find safer, PFAS-free alternatives — and share what he learns along the way.