New EU Regulation Bans PFAS and Single-Use Plastic Packaging for Produce: What You Need to Know

The European Union has introduced new rules regarding plastic packaging and waste. These regulations aim to limit harmful substances in food packaging, prohibit single-use plastics for certain fruits and vegetables, and implement other important changes. Known as Regulation (EU) 2025/40, or the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), these rules will start on February 11, 2025, with some requirements beginning even earlier, on August 12, 2026.

These regulations revise previous EU laws and will affect all EU Member States.

Limits on Harmful Chemicals

One critical change is the restriction on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), often referred to as “forever chemicals.” Starting in August 2026, food packaging cannot contain PFAS above specific limits: 25 parts per billion (ppb) for individual PFAS, 250 ppb for the total of certain PFAS, and 50 parts per million (ppm) for all PFAS combined. Existing limits on dangerous metals like lead and mercury will still apply, along with a ban on bisphenol A (BPA) in food-contact materials.

Ban on Single-Use Plastics for Produce

Another significant aspect of the PPWR is the ban on single-use plastic packaging for unprocessed, fresh fruits and vegetables that weigh less than 1.5 kilograms. This rule will start on January 1, 2030. However, there are exceptions if using plastic is necessary to prevent issues like water loss or spoilage.

Single-Use Plastics in Food Services

By 2030, hotels, restaurants, and catering services will also need to phase out single-use packaging for many foods and drinks served on-site. Consumers will have options for takeout, allowing them to use reusable containers or their own containers without added costs.

From February 2027, food service providers must inform customers about the option to use their own containers. By February 2028, they must also offer reusable container options for takeout.

Recyclability Standards

The new rules set goals for the recyclability and recycled content of plastic food packaging. All packaging must be recyclable by January 1, 2028, with a few exceptions for specific food products. By 2030, packaging made of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) must have at least 30% recycled content, while other plastic types must contain 10%. These numbers will increase to 50% by 2040 for both PET and non-PET packaging. Single-use beverage bottles will have their own targets of 30% recycled content by 2030 and 65% by 2040. Note that these rules do not apply to compostable packaging or packaging made from less than 5% plastic.