European Commission Proposes Amendment to Restrict PFHxA and Its Derivatives in Consumer Products

Amendment of Annex XVII of REACh regulation

The European Commission has submitted a draught rule to the World Trade Organisation (WTO) proposing to change Annex XVII of rule (EC) No 1907/2006, also known as REACH
(Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals). The proposed amendment would ban the use of undecafluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA), its salts, and PFHxA-
related compounds in a variety of consumer items.

Textiles and leather in consumer goods, paper and cardboard used in food contact, consumer mixtures, cosmetic items, and some applications of firefighting foams are all
targeted by the amendment.

Effects of Amendment Passage

If passed, the amendment would make it illegal to sell or use PFHxA, its salts, and PFHxA- related substances over defined quantities.

The concentration of PFHxA and its salts should not exceed 25 parts per billion (ppb) in textiles, leather, furs, and hides in clothing and related accessories, footwear, paper, and
cardboard used as food contact materials, and mixtures for the public.

Furthermore, the proposed regulation specifies compliance periods ranging from 18 months to 5 years from the date of entrance into force.

Aim/Purpose of Amendment

This amendment demonstrates the European Union commitment to preserving human health and the environment by regulating potentially dangerous substances. The European Commission intends to decrease exposure to PFHxA and its variants in a wide range of consumer products by placing restrictions on their use. If passed, the regulation is likely to
help to safer and more sustainable consumer goods on the European market.

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