The draft regulations, titled the Food Safety and Standards (Packaging) Amendment Regulations, 2025, introduce two new stringent general requirements under regulation 3.
Proposed Chemical Prohibitions
The draft mandates the following restrictions on food packaging manufacturers:
Poly- and Perfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) Ban: Poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) shall not be used in the manufacturing of food contact materials. PFAS, often called “forever chemicals,” are used in coatings to make materials water and grease-resistant but are highly persistent in the environment and human body.
Bisphenol A (BPA) and Derivatives Ban: Food contact materials manufactured with polycarbonate and epoxy resins must be free from Bisphenol A (BPA) and its derivatives. BPA is an industrial chemical used to make certain plastics and resins, and concerns have been raised about its potential to leach into food and beverages.