McDonald’s bans toxic chemical PFAS in food packaging

Fast-food giant McDonald’s has banned the class of toxic chemicals per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from guest packaging materials.

Test results indicated that McDonald's used PFAS-contaminated packaging in one of its best-sellers, the Big Mac.

Toxic-Free Future Science Director Erika Schreder warned that PFAS could raise cholesterol, damage immune response, and cause other health problems. The toxic chemicals also remain forever in the environment and contaminate drinking water.

McDonald's, the world's largest fast-food chain, said it is committed to removing all added fluorinated compounds from its packaging materials globally by 2025.

The company also disclosed it has already eliminated BPA, BPS, and phthalates in its guest packaging.

Mind the Store Campaign Director Mike Schade urged McDonald's to phase the chemicals out by 2022 and provide safe and reusable substitutes.

He added that other major fast-food chains like Burger King and Wendy’s should join efforts in eliminating PFAS out of food packaging.

McDonald’s, which serves an average of 25 million customers daily in more than 38,000 restaurants worldwide, had a venue of $21 billion in 2019.