Ep. 192. Alfredo Fernández: Emerging U.S. Regulations for PFAS in Food Contact Materials

Alfredo Fernández, J.D. is an attorney and Partner at Shipman & Goodwin LLP. As a member of the firm's national Environmental Practice, Alfredo advises clients across industry types on environmental, health, and safety issues that arise in all areas of business operations. Risk management pertaining to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) is one area of focus. Alfredo also counsels private and public entities regarding abatement of hazardous materials and conditions. He received his J.D. from University of Connecticut School of Law and holds a B.S. degree from the University of Michigan.

In this episode of Food Safety Matters, we speak with Alfredo [28:37] about:

• The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA's) Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), coming into effect in January 2026, and the requirements it sets for PFAS in food contact materials
• Emerging state-level statutes related to PFAS that will affect the food and beverage industry
• How a patchwork of state-level PFAS regulations will complicate compliance for businesses that operate in multiple U.S. states
• The broader implications of PFAS contamination and regulations for businesses in the food and beverage sector
• Challenges industry may face related to PFAS compliance in light of the current unpredictability at EPA and differences in state regulations
• Actions that companies should be prioritizing to prepare for compliance with TSCA PFAS regulations by 2026
• Ways in which legal, consulting, and operational teams can collaborate to help businesses meet upcoming and emerging regulatory demands regarding PFAS.

News and Resources

News

HHS' Proposed FDA Reorganization Would Drastically Alter Structure of Agency, Eliminate Product-Specific Offices [5:30]
As U.S. Pieces Together How HHS Cuts are Affecting Food Safety, Stakeholders Speak Out [8:02]
Utah Bans Fluoridated Drinking Water [13:29]
Study Shows Combining Antimicrobial Blue Light and Chemical Sanitizers Can Enhance Listeria Inactivation [23:22]
Study Shows Chewing Gum Releases Thousands of Microplastics, Whether Gum is Synthetic or Natural [25:22]

Resources

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Michigan State University Online Food Safety Program

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