Ban on “Forever Chemicals”: Initial Restrictions on PFAS-Coated Food Packaging
Europe’s new regulation on packaging waste officially took effect on August 12, having been approved by the EU at the end of 2024. From day one, the new rule enforces a strict ban on “forever chemicals” (PFAS - per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). Effective immediately, food-contact packaging containing specific concentrations of PFAS is prohibited on the EU market. These compounds, often used in water- and grease-resistant coatings for takeaway containers like pizza boxes and burger wrappers, are being completely phased out by the EU due to their extreme persistence in the environment and human body, as well as their toxicity.
New Standards for the Food Service Industry: Mandatory Support for BYO and Reusable Packaging
To address habits in the food service sector and among consumers, the new regulation establishes a phased timeline for reform, aiming to drive a green transition in business models:
From February 12, 2027, businesses offering hot or cold takeaway drinks or food must allow consumers to use their own cups or containers. The law explicitly states that businesses cannot charge any extra fees for this service and that the quality of the product and service must be no less than that provided with single-use packaging.
By February 12, 2028, all takeaway food businesses must offer reusable containers as an alternative to consumers, again without any hidden price increases or smaller portions. However, to ease the burden on small businesses, micro-enterprises with fewer than 10 employees are exempt from this obligation and may continue to use compliant single-use containers.
The 2030 Comprehensive Ban: Small Packaging and Single-Use Items Face Phase-Out
By January 1, 2030, a wide range of single-use mini-packaging, currently very common on the market, will be completely discontinued. According to the legislation, the comprehensive ban covers:
- Plastic multipacks: Shrink-wrap and rings used to bundle multiple drinks or cans in supermarkets.
- Mini-packaging for fresh produce: Plastic nets and trays for fresh fruits and vegetables weighing less than 1.5 kg.
- Single-use dine-in tableware: Disposable plates, cups, bags, and trays provided for consumption on-site in food service establishments.
- Single-use condiment sachets: Individual portions of sauces like ketchup, mayonnaise, and sugar.
- Hotel toiletries: Miniature toiletries and plastic-wrapped soaps provided in hotels.
- Very lightweight plastic bags: Lightweight carrier bags with a thickness below 15 microns.
Mandatory Recycling Targets: Accelerating the Rollout of Deposit Return System (SDDR)
In addition to reducing packaging at the source, the new regulation sets strict targets for end-of-life recycling. By 2029, EU member states must achieve a separate collection rate of over 90% for cans and plastic bottles. This mandatory target will compel the accelerated implementation of a Deposit Return System (SDDR). This model requires consumers to pay a small deposit when purchasing bottled beverages, which is fully refunded upon returning the empty container, ensuring it enters the reuse or recycling stream directly.
In Spain, for instance, official data shows that in 2023, the beverage packaging recycling rate for the yellow bin system (managed by Ecoembes) was only 40%, far below the nationally set legal target of 70%. Against this backdrop, and in accordance with the relevant regulations, Spain must establish a comprehensive SDDR system by November 2026 to meet the environmental challenges posed by the new rules.
