Saving Tips

PFAS and Microplastics Ban 2026

March 1, 2026

•

8 min

•

checkeverything.ch Team

New EU bans on PFAS and microplastics also apply in Switzerland. Which products are affected and what to look for when shopping.

Note: This article contains information about current product regulations and serves consumer education purposes.

PFAS and microplastics are everywhere - in cosmetics, cookware, outdoor clothing, and many everyday products. The EU and Switzerland are now introducing bans step by step to protect the environment and health.

In this article, you'll learn what PFAS and microplastics are, which products are affected, and what to look for when shopping.

✅ New Bans from 2026The EU microplastics regulation and planned PFAS restrictions are being gradually implemented in Switzerland as well. Initial product categories are already affected.

What Are PFAS and Microplastics?

PFAS - The "Forever Chemicals"

PFAS stands for Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances - a group of over 10,000 different chemicals. They're called "forever chemicals" because they practically don't break down in the environment.

Used in: Water and grease-resistant coatings in:

Teflon pans
Outdoor jackets
Food packaging (e.g., pizza boxes)
Cosmetics
Firefighting foam

Microplastics

Microplastics are tiny plastic particles under 5mm in size. They are:

Intentionally added: In cosmetics, cleaning products, paints
Unintentionally created: Through abrasion from tires, textiles, packaging

Which Products Are Affected?

EU Ban on Intentionally Added Microplastics

Product Category	Ban Date	Examples
Glitter/Sequins	October 2023	Glitter cosmetics, decorations
Exfoliating Products	October 2023	Face scrubs, shower gels with microbeads
Artificial Turf Granules	2031	Sports fields, gardens
Cosmetics in General	2027-2035	Lipsticks, creams, makeup

PFAS Restrictions (in Planning)

Product Category	Status
Cosmetics	EU ban under discussion, Switzerland to follow
Textiles (waterproof)	Restrictions planned
Food Packaging	Partly already banned
Non-stick Coatings	No short-term bans

Health and Environmental Risks

Why Are PFAS Problematic?

Risk	Details
Persistence	Don't break down in the environment - hundreds to thousands of years
Bioaccumulation	Accumulate in the body (blood, organs)
Health Effects	Suspected link to cancer, thyroid problems, immune deficiency
Distribution	Already detectable in drinking water, soil, and blood of almost all people

⚠️ PFAS in Switzerland

Studies show: PFAS are also detectable in Swiss waters and drinking water - usually below threshold values, but the long-term effects of everyday exposure are not yet fully researched.

How to Identify PFAS and Microplastics

Look for These on Labels:

Substance	Typical Label Names
PFAS	PTFE, Perfluoro..., Polyfluoro..., Fluoropolymer
Microplastics	Polyethylene (PE), Polypropylene (PP), Nylon, Acrylates Copolymer

Apps and Tools

ToxFox App (BUND): Scans barcodes and shows problematic ingredients
CodeCheck App: Rates cosmetics and food
Check INCI lists online: Research individual ingredients

Alternatives: Shopping PFAS- and Microplastic-Free

Cosmetics

Product	Alternative without PFAS/Microplastics
Exfoliator	With sugar, salt, apricot kernels
Lipstick	Natural cosmetics brands (without PTFE)
Foundation	Mineral foundations
Sunscreen	Mineral UV protection (zinc oxide)

Household

Product	PFAS-Free Alternative
Teflon Pan	Cast iron, stainless steel, ceramic coating
Baking Paper	Unbleached baking paper, silicone baking mat
Outdoor Jacket	PFC-free impregnation (many outdoor brands offer this)
Food Containers	Glass, stainless steel instead of plastic

Tips for Everyday Life

5 Simple Steps to Reduce PFAS/Microplastics

Choose natural cosmetics - Labels like BDIH, NaTrue, Ecocert guarantee freedom from problematic substances
Reduce fast food - Packaging often PFAS-coated
Wash textiles before wearing - Removes some chemicals
Check cookware - Replace old Teflon pans with scratches
Drink tap water - Strictly monitored in Switzerland

✅ The Good News

Many manufacturers are already responding to the bans and switching to alternatives. Look for labels like "PFAS-free," "PFC-free," or "without microplastics."

Frequently Asked Questions

Are All PFAS Equally Dangerous?

No, there are thousands of different PFAS with varying properties. Some are demonstrably more harmful than others. The problem: Sufficient data is still lacking for many.

Do I Have to Throw Away All My Teflon Pans Now?

Not necessarily. As long as the coating is intact, hardly any PFAS are released. Replace pans with scratches or generally use wooden/plastic kitchen utensils.

Is Swiss Tap Water Safe?

Yes, Swiss tap water is among the safest in the world. PFAS levels are monitored and usually far below threshold values. However, monitoring continues to be expanded.

Can I Remove PFAS from My Body?

PFAS break down very slowly (half-life in the body: years). It's best to reduce further intake. The body then slowly breaks them down.

Conclusion: Conscious Consumption Pays Off

The new bans are an important step for the environment and health. As consumers, you can make a big difference through conscious purchasing decisions.

Our Recommendations:

Check ingredients on labels
Choose PFAS-free alternatives
Prefer natural cosmetics
Avoid single-use packaging
Look for PFC-free options in outdoor products

Note: This article serves as general information about current product regulations. The bans and restrictions mentioned may change. Status: March 2026.