California Moves Forward in Restricting Hazardous Chemicals in Food Packaging

On February 20, 2025, the California State Legislature introduced Assembly Bill No. 1148, known as the “Safer Food Packing Act of 2025.”

Table of contents

1. Proposed effective date

2. Context and background

3. Objective and scope

4. Official and updated sources

Proposed effective date

If the law is passed, the restriction is expected to take effect on January 1, 2027.

Context and background

This bill deepens California's efforts to protect public health and the environment.

A relevant precedent is Assembly Bill No. 1200 , effective January 1, 2023, which prohibits the use of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) in food packaging.

With AB 1148, the regulation would go further, covering an additional group of chemicals that are of concern due to their potential health risks.

Objective and scope

• Safeguarding the health of the population : By reducing exposure to potentially toxic substances present in packaging, the aim is to mitigate adverse effects on consumers.

• Promote safer packaging : Food companies will have to adapt their materials and processes to comply with new legal requirements.

• Unify surveillance criteria : The law establishes clear and progressive economic sanctions for those who violate the regulations, contributing to their proper implementation.

  
  

Official and updated sources

• California State Legislature: Available to review the full content of AB 1148 and learn about its legislative evolution.

• California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC): Provides information on regulation and analysis of chemicals in consumer products.

  
  

In short, the Safer Food Packing Act of 2025 reinforces California's policy of limiting or eliminating harmful chemicals in everyday items, encouraging the industry to develop safer and more sustainable packaging solutions.

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