PFAS Testing Services Strengthened to Help Businesses Meet Global Safety Standards

We continue to lead the charge against per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), the  “forever chemicals” linked to serious health and environmental concerns. With strengthened capabilities across consumer products, electronics and food materials safety testing, we offer a comprehensive suite of services tailored to evolving global standards.

PFAS: why testing matters now more than ever

PFAS are prized in manufacturing for their resistance to heat, water and oil. However, their persistence in the environment, combined with links to health impacts like cancer, immune disruption and reproductive issues, has triggered stricter regulation worldwide.

Consumer products: from fabrics to frying pans

We support businesses navigating the patchwork of PFAS regulations, from the EU's REACH, POPs and new Packaging Waste laws to intricate US state-based rules. With regard to analytical testing, we offer:

• Total fluorine screening
• Total organic fluorine (TOF) screening
• Targeted PFAS analysis via GC-MS and LC-MS/MS

SGS green marks No PFAS Detected

The SGS No PFAS Detected mark can be applied to raw materials, packaging goods, components, and finished products, but does not apply to any fluoropolymer or product containing a fluoropolymer.  The assessments are conducted using specific SGS protocols:

• Electrical and electronics – SGS-100721 – 100724
• Softlines – SGS-100741 and 100744
• Hardlines – SGS-100732 and 100734

Visit our dedicated web page or download the brochure

Food and food contact materials: protecting what we eat

PFAS contamination in food and packaging is a growing concern. We offer advanced testing for food matrices and contact materials, with methods sensitive enough to detect regulatory priority compounds.

In a recent study, we tested fruit juices and smoothies using methods from SGS Institut Fresenius – only one green smoothie showed detectable PFAS, while others remained within safe limits. This contrasts with industry findings of 29% non-compliance elsewhere.

The new PFAS requirements in the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) are set to take effect on 12 August 2026. These requirements include:

Restrictions on PFAS in food-contact packaging: Manufacturers must provide technical documentation showing compliance with PFAS limits. If total fluorine exceeds 50 ppm, suppliers must provide evidence indicating how much of that fluorine is from PFAS and how much from non-PFAS.

A global compliance partner with unmatched expertise

We are recognized as the benchmark for quality and integrity in the food supply industry. Wherever you operate in the world, our experts can support you with a range of testing solutions that enhance your ability to trade in global markets while mitigating risk in supply chains and ensuring food product safety.

IMPACT NOW for sustainability

PFAS testing is a core service within our IMPACT NOW for sustainability initiative which brings together solutions under four strategic pillars: climate, nature, ESG assurance and circularity. Under the nature pillar, our PFAS sampling and testing services enable better decision-making, regulatory compliance and environmental responsibility.

Through IMPACT NOW, we drive businesses toward meaningful change as we help them to meet rising regulatory and stakeholder expectations.