On January 12, 2026, Governor Phil Murphy signed the Protecting Against Forever Chemicals Act (PAFC Act) (S1042/A1421). The law restricts the intentional use of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in various consumer products, including fiber-based food packaging, cosmetics, and new carpets or fabric treatments. The new law also requires labeling of cookware that contains intentionally added PFAS. The law includes exemptions for cosmetics and cookware where PFAS is only used in electronic or internal components, and products that only contain “technically unavoidable” trace quantities of PFAS stemming from impurities or the manufacturing process.

The ban and labeling requirement become effective on January 12, 2028.

With respect to the labeling requirement for cookware, manufacturers of cookware that contains intentionally added PFAS in a handle or food-contact surface must declare its presence on the product’s label, with a notice in English and Spanish stating: "This product contains PFAS." Manufacturers must also post the information in online listings.

Cookware products that are too small to fit a label at least two square inches in size and do not have a wrapper or tag on which a label can be affixed are also exempt from the labeling requirement. Cookware products that disclose the presence of PFAS under another state or federal law are considered in compliance with the PAFC Act.

Under the PAFC Act, the state’s Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is required to establish a PFAS source-reduction program by January 12, 2027, and report to the governor and the legislature on the success of the program by January 12, 2028, and each year thereafter for 10 years. DEP is also directed to conduct research and environmental monitoring.