Consumers’ perceptions of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances and bio-based treatments on disposable dinnerware

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are forever chemicals that have been used for their heat, grease, and water-resistant properties on disposable dinnerware. However, PFAS pose risks to human health and the environment and alternative treatments are currently being implemented in the disposable dinnerware industry, including bio- or plant-based treatments. To date, consumer perceptions of the practical usage and environment-related attributes of PFAS versus plant-based alternative treatments have not been addressed. An online survey elicited 1304 U S. consumers' perceptions of the attributes from each treatment and factors impacting those perceptions. On average, participants purchased disposable plates 13 times per year with 50 % ± 50 purchasing them for everyday use. Approximately 20 % ± 40 of the sample had heard of PFAS prior to the study while 62 % ± 49 had heard of bio-based products. In general, PFAS treatments were perceived as performing slightly better in the practical usage attributes (i.e., grease resistant, water resistant, durable); however, the plant-based alternative treatments were perceived as more environmentally friendly (i.e., better for the environment, better for personal health, recyclable, compostable). Older participants viewing plant-based treatments as better at grease resistance, water resistance, durability, and microwavable relative to younger participants. Conversely, people with higher education levels viewed plant-based treatments as less resistant to grease but more durable. Interestingly, participants’ perceptions and existing knowledge of PFAS and bio-based products influenced their perceptions of plant-based treatments being more environmentally friendly. Results provide insights for industry stakeholders as they move forward in implementing PFAS alternative treatments.