On 27 June 2025, the European Commission took another decisive step in the fight against harmful chemicals by adopting Regulation (EU) 2025/718, which significantly tightens restrictions on perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) under the Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) Regulation.
This latest amendment reflects not just a policy update—it’s a clear signal to industries that the EU is moving toward a future free from persistent toxic substances. At 1cc, we’re here to ensure your business is not only compliant but also resilient in the face of evolving regulatory landscapes.
What’s Changing – And Why It Matters
PFOS has long been recognized as one of the most hazardous substances in the PFAS family, due to its persistence, bioaccumulation, and toxicity. Although previously regulated under Regulation (EU) 2019/1021, recent advancements in detection and substitution have paved the way for stricter control measures.
Key updates include:
- Sharply Reduced UTC Limits
- PFOS and its salts in substances, mixtures, or articles:
Reduced from 10 mg/kg to 0.025 mg/kg (0.0000025%) - Combined concentration of PFOS-related compounds:
Lowered to 1 mg/kg (0.0001%)
This aligns PFOS thresholds with those of PFOA, demonstrating that lower contamination levels are technically achievable.
- Broader and Clearer Definitions
Annex I now explicitly cover:
“PFOS, its salts and PFOS-related compounds C8F17SO2X (X = OH, metal salt, halide, amide, and related compounds including polymers)”
This ensures better regulatory clarity and reduces loopholes in enforcement.
- Elimination of Chromium Plating Exemptions
The long-standing exemption for PFOS use in hard chromium (VI) plating inhibitors has been removed, emphasizing the availability of safer alternatives across the EU.
Timeline You Need to Know
The new regulation enters into force 20 days after publication in the Official Journal of the EU. All key provisions, including new limits and deleted exemptions, become binding from 3 December 2025.
This gives affected sectors, especially those in chemicals, electroplating, textiles, and electronics industries, a limited window to adapt their processes and supply chains.
How 1cc Can Help: Compliance Made Simple
The road to compliance doesn’t have to be complicated. At 1cc, we support businesses across Europe and beyond with:
- PFAS/PFOA/PFOS Supply Chain Screening
- Regulatory Data Analysis & Impact Assessment
- Full-Service Supply Chain Surveys
- Strategic Consulting for Chemical & Environmental Compliance
- Regulatory Monitoring Services – always stay ahead of change
Whether you’re unsure about your current PFOS exposure or need help implementing alternatives, we’re here to guide you.
Let’s Work Together
Ensure you’re prepared for the December 2025 deadline. We’ll help you turn compliance into a competitive advantage.
