Sustainable Packaging Gets a PFAS-Free Makeover

Impermea and INX join forces to scale safer, PFAS-free coatings for U.S. food packaging

14 Oct 2025

A new partnership between Impermea Materials and INX International could accelerate the shift toward safer, more sustainable food packaging. Announced on Sept. 22, 2025, the collaboration seeks to bring PFAS-free coatings to the U.S. market as states tighten restrictions on the persistent “forever chemicals.”

For decades, PFAS compounds have been prized for their ability to repel grease and moisture in food packaging. But mounting evidence of their persistence in the environment and potential health risks has led regulators to pursue phase-outs. Several states have introduced measures to curb PFAS use, intensifying demand for viable alternatives.

Impermea has developed a bio-based coating designed to match the performance of PFAS without their environmental drawbacks. INX, a global producer of printing inks and coatings, offers the manufacturing capacity and supply network to bring the innovation to market. Together, the companies aim to deliver a PFAS- and plastic-free solution compatible with existing production lines, reducing the need for costly equipment changes.

“This collaboration moves beyond lab experiments toward real-world production,” said a spokesperson for INX, emphasizing the partnership’s focus on scalable implementation. Leaders at Impermea described the effort as “a step toward uniting safety, performance, and sustainability.”

Industry analysts suggest that the timing is favorable. Demand for recyclable and compostable packaging continues to rise, driven by both consumer expectations and evolving environmental policy. Some observers believe the alliance could challenge established suppliers, though they note that commercial rollout remains at an early stage, with pilot testing still underway.

Challenges persist, particularly around verifying safety and ensuring long-term performance. Early results, however, indicate that Impermea’s coatings can be applied using existing equipment, a potential advantage for rapid adoption.

If successful, the Impermea-INX partnership could mark a turning point for sustainable packaging, signaling an industry increasingly committed to phasing out harmful materials in favor of safer, renewable alternatives.