PFAS in Canned Food: How to Reduce Your Exposure

Most people focus on cookware and water when reducing PFAS, but canned food is often overlooked. PFAS shows up in consumer products across dozens of categories. The good news is that safer alternatives exist, and the switch is easier than you might think.

For more context, see our guides on PFAS-free sous vide cooking and PFAS-free bedsheets.

Health risks from PFAS in canned food

Research consistently identifies PFAS as a class of chemicals of concern. A 2023 review in eBioMedicine found evidence linking PFAS to thyroid disruption, immune system changes, and developmental concerns in children. Avoiding products with PFAS coatings is one straightforward way to reduce your family’s exposure.

What to look for when shopping

Identifying truly PFAS-free products requires going beyond standard marketing claims. Look for third-party certifications such as OEKO-TEX Standard 100 or bluesign, which explicitly restrict PFAS use. Avoid products described as “water-repellent” or “stain-guard” unless the brand confirms they use a fluorine-free treatment. For food-contact items, glass and stainless steel are the safest material choices. The PFAS Free Life Database maintains an up-to-date list of verified clean products.

Safer alternatives to try

Safer options are more available than they used to be. Look for:

1. Natural materials like stainless steel, cast iron, glass, and untreated cotton
2. Products certified by OEKO-TEX Standard 100 or similar testing programs
3. Brands that are transparent about their chemical policies and confirm they use fluorine-free treatments

A great starting point is Caraway Non-Stick Ceramic 4-Piece Bakeware Set, which has been recommended by the PFAS-free community as a reliable swap.

How to reduce PFAS exposure step by step

Small changes add up. Start with high-exposure categories like cookware, water, and food packaging. For canned food:

• Replace coated products as they wear out, not all at once
• Store food in glass or stainless steel instead of plastic or coated containers
• Check our guide on PFAS-free food storage bags for kitchen storage options
• See our PFAS-free cookware guide for safer cooking options

Building a PFAS-free home is a marathon, not a sprint. The PFAS Free Life Database is a great companion resource.

Frequently Asked Questions

What health risks are linked to PFAS?

PFAS exposure from consumer products has been associated with several health concerns, including elevated cholesterol, immune system disruption, hormone interference, and in some cases increased cancer risk. Children and pregnant women are considered especially vulnerable. The good news is that reducing exposure through product swaps can lower your body burden over time, as PFAS do eventually clear from the body when exposure stops.

Can I test my home for PFAS contamination?

Yes. You can test your drinking water for PFAS using certified laboratory testing services or at-home kits from companies like SimpleLab. For other types of exposure — from products or household dust — testing is more complex, but starting with your water is the most impactful first step. Your state health department may also offer resources or low-cost testing programs.

How can I tell if a product has PFAS?

Without laboratory testing, it’s hard to say for sure. Look for marketing terms like “water-repellent,” “stain-guard,” “grease-resistant,” or “wrinkle-free,” which often signal PFAS treatments. Certifications like OEKO-TEX Standard 100 or bluesign prohibit PFAS. You can also search the PFAS Free Life Database at database.pfasfreelife.com to find verified clean products.