EU Updates PFOS Regulation to Align with PFOA Standards Under POP Recast
GENEVA, SWITZERLAND / AGILITYPR.NEWS / July 16, 2025 / SGS, the world’s leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 097.25 to highlight the recent amendment by the European Union concerning perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) and related compounds under the POP Recast Regulation.
On June 27, 2025, the EU adopted Regulation (EU) 2025/718, amending the entry for PFOS and PFOS derivatives in Annex I to Regulation (EU) 2019/1021 on persistent organic pollutants (POPs). The amendment aligns the terminology and unintentional trace contaminant (UTC) limits for PFOS, its salts and related compounds with those already established for perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and its related substances. The changes will enter into force on July 17, 2025.
Key updates include:
- Harmonization of PFOS nomenclature with that of PFOA, its salts and related compounds
- Strengthened UTC limits for PFOS and PFOS-related compounds to ensure consistency with PFOA thresholds
- Updated UTC specifications for PFOS in semi-finished products, articles and coated materials aligned with PFOA requirements
- Removal of the specific exemption for PFOS use as a mist suppressant in non-decorative hard chromium plating, reflecting the availability of alternatives
- Deletion of provisions related to analytical standards for PFOS
PFOS and its derivatives are valued for their high resistance to heat, friction and chemicals and are widely used as repellents in consumer products such as textiles, firefighting foams, non-stick cookware, food packaging and more.
SGS publishes SafeGuardS to help stakeholders stay informed on regulatory developments. SafeGuardS 097.25 provides a clear summary of the key amendments to PFOS nomenclature, unintentional trace contaminant limits and specification updates compared to the previous POP Recast Regulation.
Stakeholders are encouraged to consult SafeGuardS 097.25 for full details on the amendment and guidance on ensuring compliance with the updated requirements.
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SGS offers a comprehensive range of testing services to help manufacturers and suppliers ensure their products are safe and comply with national and international regulations concerning harmful chemicals. In the end, it’s only trusted because it’s tested. Learn more about SGS chemical testing services.
SGS SafeGuardS keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in the consumer goods industry. Read the full EU Revises Entry for PFOS and its Derivatives under POP Recast Regulation SafeGuardS.
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For further information contact:
Dr. Hingw Tsang
Global Information and Innovation Manager
Tel: +852 2774 7420
Website: www.sgs.com/hardlines
LinkedIn: SGS Connectivity & Products
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