Geneva (May 7, 2025) – SGS, the world’s leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 059.25, summarizing the European Committee for Standardization (CEN)’s update of the per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) test method.
PFAS chemicals are commonly found in industry and consumer goods due to their water/oil/dirt/grease-resistant properties. However, many of these substances have been found to be harmful to both human and environmental health.
EN 17681-1:2025 replaces the current EN 17681-1:2022 standard, introducing a major shift in the analytical approach for detecting PFAS in textiles. The new approach has been found to identify significantly higher levels of certain PFAS analytes commonly present in treated textile materials.
The new standard is expected to transform PFAS testing practices across the global textile industry as brands, retailers and suppliers are obliged to meet evolving regulatory requirements. The enhanced testing approach will provide more precise and comprehensive data, supporting better-informed decisions regarding safety and compliance.
SGS experts publish SafeGuardS to keep stakeholders informed about regulatory changes that could impact their business. SafeGuardS 059.25 includes an overview, including additional information, on the new testing approach outlined in EN 17681-1:2025.
Advanced PFAS testing capabilities also form part of the SGS IMPACT NOW for sustainability initiative, which helps clients achieve regulatory compliance while achieving environmental goals.
Stakeholders are encouraged to refer to the original SafeGuardS 059.25 for more details.
SGS softlines services
SGS has a worldwide network of over 40 state-of-the-art laboratories, including 10 in China, specializing in the testing of apparel, footwear, and home textiles. Their committed team is drawn from multi-disciplinary backgrounds, allowing them to conduct a comprehensive range of physical, chemical, and functional testing services for components, materials and finished products. SGS helps companies ensure quality, performance, and compliance with international, industrial, and regulatory standards worldwide. In the end, it’s only trusted because it’s tested. Learn more about SGS’s softlines services. [www.sgs.com/softlines]
SGS SafeGuardS keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in the consumer goods industry. Read the full Updated PFAS Test Method for Textile Products SafeGuardS. [www.sgs.com/en/news/2025/04/safeguards-05925--updated-pfas-test-method-for-textile-products]
Subscribe today and receive SGS SafeGuardS direct to your inbox. [http://www.sgs.com/subscribes]
For further information contact:
Dr. Min Zhu
Senior Director, Technical Services and Operations, Softlines, US and Canada
Tel: +1 (97) 346-11230
Website: http://www.sgs.com/softlines
LinkedIn: SGS Connectivity & Products
About SGS
SGS is the world’s leading Testing, Inspection and Certification company. We operate a network of over 2,500 laboratories and business facilities across 115 countries, supported by a team of 99,500 dedicated professionals. With over 145 years of service excellence, we combine the precision and accuracy that define Swiss companies to help organizations achieve the highest standards of quality, compliance and sustainability.
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