EU packaging regulation from August
The EU is preparing for a major transformation in packaging regulation with the introduction of the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), officially Regulation (EU) 2025/40, which will apply from August 12, 2026. The regulation introduces comprehensive new requirements aimed at improving sustainability, safety, traceability, and circularity across all packaging placed on the European market.
Key changes
One of the key changes is the introduction of stricter limits on harmful substances in packaging materials. Food-contact packaging containing PFAS will be subject to strict thresholds, while the combined concentration of lead, cadmium, mercury, and hexavalent chromium may not exceed 100 mg/kg. The regulation also strengthens market surveillance to ensure compliance.
Formal EU Declaration of Conformity
From August 2026, all packaging sold in the EU must also be accompanied by a formal EU Declaration of Conformity (DoC). Manufacturers will be responsible for preparing the declaration and maintaining supporting technical documentation, including design specifications, test results, and recyclability assessments. These records must be retained for five years for single-use packaging and ten years for reusable packaging. In addition, packaging will need to clearly display the name, trademark, and postal address of both the manufacturer and, where applicable, the importer, improving traceability throughout the supply chain.
The PPWR further expands Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) obligations by requiring producers to register in every EU Member State where packaging is first placed on the market. Companies without a local establishment in a Member State may need to appoint an Authorized Representative to manage these obligations.
Focus on regulation of reusable packaging
Another major focus of the regulation is reusable packaging. Businesses placing reusable packaging on the market will need to implement effective collection, reconditioning, and redistribution systems, supported by clear consumer instructions and return logistics to ensure packaging remains within a circular reuse loop.
The regulation also sets out a longer-term implementation timeline. From February 12, 2027, hotels, restaurants, and catering businesses (HORECA) must allow customers to bring their own reusable containers at no additional charge. By August 12, 2028, harmonized labeling requirements will become mandatory, including information on material composition, sorting instructions, and reusability details accessible via QR codes.
Sustainability milestone will follow on January 1
A major sustainability milestone will follow on January 1, 2030. By then, all packaging placed on the EU market must be recyclable and achieve at least a Grade C recyclability rating. Plastic packaging will also need to meet minimum recycled content requirements, while e-commerce, transport, and grouped packaging will be limited to a maximum of 50% empty space. In addition, bans on certain single-use plastic packaging formats will take effect, and specific transport and sales packaging categories will be required to meet minimum reuse targets.