Understanding Your Snacks: Does Bagged Popcorn Have PFAS?

October 3, 2025 •

4 min read

According to a 2019 study, people who regularly consume microwave popcorn have been found to have significantly higher levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in their blood. These so-called “forever chemicals” were historically used in the grease-resistant lining of many microwave popcorn bags, raising concerns about migration into the food. The question, does bagged popcorn have PFAS?, has been a major point of consideration for a nutrition-conscious diet.

Quick Summary

The grease-resistant coating of many microwave popcorn bags has traditionally contained PFAS, which can transfer from the packaging to the popcorn and into the body. While manufacturers have voluntarily phased out some PFAS from food contact substances, concerns about these 'forever chemicals' and their health effects persist. Consumers can significantly reduce their exposure by opting for stovetop or air-popped popcorn instead.

Key Points

PFAS historically used in bags: Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) were once a common coating in microwave popcorn bags to prevent grease leakage.
Health risks are a concern: Regular consumption of microwave popcorn containing PFAS was linked to higher levels of these "forever chemicals" in the bloodstream and potential health risks.
Industry has shifted away: As of early 2024, the U.S. FDA announced that manufacturers have voluntarily phased out grease-proofing PFAS from food packaging.
Safer alternatives are available: Homemade popcorn, whether air-popped or stovetop prepared, offers a healthy, chemical-free way to enjoy this whole-grain snack.
Labeling is key: Look for brands that explicitly state their packaging is PFAS-free to ensure a safer snack choice.
Control your nutrition: Popping your own corn allows you to control salt, butter, and unhealthy flavorings for a genuinely healthy snack.

What Are PFAS and Why Are They in Food Packaging?

PFAS are a large family of man-made chemicals known for their ability to repel grease, oil, and water. These properties made them highly desirable for various industrial and consumer products, including nonstick cookware, stain-resistant fabrics, and, notably, the grease-resistant lining of microwave popcorn bags. The high heat and oil inside a microwave bag during cooking could cause these chemicals to migrate from the packaging to the food.

The Health Concerns of PFAS

One of the most concerning aspects of PFAS is their persistence. They are often called "forever chemicals" because they break down very slowly, accumulating in the environment and in the human body over time. Elevated levels of PFAS in the body have been linked to a number of adverse health effects, which is why consumers became concerned about foods like microwave popcorn. Potential health issues associated with PFAS exposure include:

Reproductive issues
Decreased fertility
Developmental delays in children
Reduced immune response
Increased cholesterol levels
Hormonal imbalances
Increased risk of certain cancers, such as kidney and testicular

Industry Response and a Shift Away from PFAS

Due to growing public health concerns and regulatory pressure, there has been a significant move by manufacturers to eliminate certain PFAS from food packaging. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced in February 2024 that the sale of grease-proofing substances containing PFAS for food packaging was voluntarily phased out by manufacturers. This was considered a major step towards eliminating a primary source of dietary PFAS exposure from authorized food contact uses.

For example, Conagra Brands committed to removing PFAS from their Act II microwave popcorn bags as of March 2023. In 2019, a study by IPEN and Nexus3 had found PFAS in several popular US microwave popcorn brands, including Jolly Time and Act II, but subsequent actions demonstrate a shift away from this practice. Some brands, like Black Jewell, explicitly advertise their microwave popcorn bags as being free of PFOA and PFAS.

Healthier Popcorn Options for a Better Diet

Choosing healthier ways to enjoy popcorn is key to minimizing potential chemical exposure and controlling nutritional content. Plain popcorn is a high-fiber, whole-grain snack that is naturally low in calories. The health benefits and risks largely depend on the preparation method and toppings.

Here are some of the healthiest ways to prepare and eat popcorn:

Air-Popped: The simplest and healthiest method, using a dedicated air-popping machine or silicone microwave popper. It requires no oil, resulting in a low-calorie snack.
Stovetop: Pop kernels in a heavy-bottomed pot on the stove with a small amount of a healthy oil, such as avocado or olive oil.
Brown Paper Bag: For microwave convenience without the harmful bag, put kernels in a standard brown paper bag, fold the top, and microwave until popping slows.

Toppings are just as important. Instead of heavy butter and salt, consider healthier alternatives:

Nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor
A sprinkle of parmesan cheese
Low-sodium seasoning blends
Cinnamon or pumpkin spice
Sugar-free cocoa powder

Comparison Table: Microwave vs. Homemade Popcorn


Feature	Conventional Microwave Popcorn	Homemade Popcorn (Stovetop or Air-Popped)
PFAS Risk	Historically high risk due to treated bags, though now largely phased out by major brands.	Very low to non-existent, depending on the cooking method and ingredients.
Ingredient Control	Limited; includes artificial flavorings, high sodium, and saturated fats.	Full control over oil type, salt, and seasonings.
Nutritional Value	Often lower, with high levels of sodium, calories, and saturated fat.	Naturally high in fiber and whole grains; can be prepared very low in calories and fat.
Cost	Generally more expensive per serving.	More cost-effective as kernels and oil are typically cheaper in bulk.
Convenience	High; quick and easy microwave preparation.	Slightly more preparation time required, but still a quick process.

Conclusion

While the answer to does bagged popcorn have PFAS? is evolving and largely becoming 'no' due to recent industry changes, consumers should remain mindful of the products they purchase. The transition away from these persistent chemicals is a positive development for food safety. However, the legacy of their use highlights the importance of informed choices. By opting for homemade popcorn using natural kernels and controlling the ingredients, you can enjoy a nutritious, high-fiber snack without the historical concerns. This simple dietary shift can offer greater peace of mind and better nutritional control, steering your diet toward safer and healthier options.

Tips for Reducing PFAS Exposure from Food

Cook at Home: Prioritize home-cooked meals over processed or packaged foods to limit exposure from packaging.
Avoid Grease-Resistant Wrappers: Be cautious with greasy takeout containers, paperboard items, and other packaging, as they may still contain PFAS.
Replace Nonstick Cookware: Swap old nonstick pans for safer alternatives like cast iron, stainless steel, or ceramic.
Use Glass or Ceramic Storage: Store leftovers in glass or ceramic containers instead of plastic or other potentially treated materials.
Filter Your Water: Use a high-quality water filter (like activated carbon or reverse osmosis) that is certified to remove PFAS if your local water source is contaminated.
Check Labels: Look for brands that explicitly state their products, including popcorn bags, are PFAS-free.

Frequently Asked Questions

PFAS are a class of thousands of man-made chemicals known as 'forever chemicals' because they resist breaking down in the environment and human body. They were used in many consumer products, including food packaging, for their grease, oil, and water-repellent properties.

Historically, many brands of microwave popcorn used PFAS in their bags. However, significant industry changes and regulatory pressure have led to a phase-out of these chemicals in food packaging by major manufacturers.

While the level of risk is still being researched, studies have shown that regular consumption of microwave popcorn historically containing PFAS can significantly increase the concentration of these chemicals in the body. Elevated PFAS levels are linked to potential adverse health effects.

Many brands now label their products as PFAS-free. Look for statements on the packaging, or check brand websites for information regarding their commitment to eliminating these chemicals. Some companies, like Conagra (Act II) and Black Jewell, have explicitly stated their switch to PFAS-free bags.

The healthiest method is to buy plain popcorn kernels and pop them yourself. Air-popped is the best for a low-calorie snack, or you can use a small amount of healthy oil on the stovetop. Use minimal or healthy toppings like nutritional yeast instead of heavy butter and salt.

Yes, using a standard brown paper bag to pop kernels in the microwave is a safer alternative to pre-packaged bags. It allows you to control the ingredients and avoids the chemical lining found in traditional microwave popcorn packaging.

Besides historical use in microwave popcorn bags, PFAS have been found in other grease-resistant food packaging, such as fast-food wrappers, take-out containers, and some pizza boxes. Consumers can reduce exposure by limiting reliance on these single-use items.