Now Illegal: Minnesota Just Banned a Bunch of Certain Common Products

Minnesota is taking a big step to eliminate certain common household products from store shelves, implementing a first-of-its-kind ban that went into effect on January 1, 2025.

With this new law, the state has targeted a wide range of everyday items to address growing concerns over their safety and environmental impact.

Minnesota’s Groundbreaking PFAS Ban: What You Need to Know

Minnesota is set to enforce the nation's most comprehensive ban on products containing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as "forever chemicals," starting January 1, 2025. These chemicals, linked to serious health risks such as immune suppression and liver dysfunction, will be prohibited in a wide range of household items-- the full list is included below.

What Are PFAS?

PFAS are synthetic chemicals found in thousands of products due to their water, and stain-resistant properties. However, their resistance to breakdown in the environment and the human body has led to them being dubbed "forever chemicals." Studies have associated PFAS with long-term health issues, including decreased vaccination response and lower birth weight in babies.

Impact of Minnesota's PFAS Ban on Businesses and Consumers

Some people are saying this ban is going to be a pain for businesses because of the extra costs to comply, but in the long run, it will be worth it to help people and the environment stay healthy.

Katrina Kessler, the head of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, is all about it. She says it’s not just about protecting people’s health, it’s also a chance for businesses to get creative and come up with safer, PFAS-free products.

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According to an MPR News story, local businesses like St. Louis Park-based Nordic Ware are already seeing the benefits of early compliance. By eliminating PFAS from their cookware, the company developed more durable, high-performance finishes, which helped them gain an edge over slower-moving competitors.

What Products Are Banned Under the New Law in Minnesota?

Starting in 2025, the following products containing intentionally added PFAS will be banned in Minnesota:

What's Next?

Starting next year, businesses have to report any PFAS in their products to the state, and by 2032, selling anything with these chemicals will be straight-up banned unless it’s absolutely necessary. It could prove to be kind of a headache for some companies, but honestly, it’s nice knowing Minnesota is stepping up to make things safer for everyone.

A Nationwide Model

Minnesota's PFAS ban is being hailed as a potential blueprint for other states. “The growing national demand for safer products is an exciting opportunity,” Kessler told MPR.

For more information about the ban and its implications, visit the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency website.