Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances—commonly known as PFAS—have become one of the most fertile grounds for class action litigation in the United States. What began as a focused wave of environmental contamination suits has evolved into a broad and aggressive campaign of false advertising class actions targeting manufacturers and retailers across virtually every consumer-facing industry. Companies that market their products as “natural,” “healthy,” “sustainable,” or “safe” now face serious litigation exposure—even when PFAS were never deliberately added to their products at all.
Understanding the scope of this trend, and what companies can do about it, is essential for any business operating in today's regulatory and litigation environment.