EU curbs on 'forever chemicals' in food packaging kick in

EU regulations on harmful substances, dubbed "forever chemicals," in food packaging came into effect on Wednesday, accompanied by more stringent measures to reduce packaging waste across the European Union. These substances, known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), are synthetic chemicals that break down extremely slowly, raising significant health concerns due to their long-term effects.

A European Commission statement announced that food-contact packaging containing PFAS above certain limits will no longer be permitted in the EU market. The EU's focus is on curbing the surge in packaging waste, which has increased due to the growth in online shopping and on-the-go consumption within the 27-member bloc.

Under the forthcoming rules, which will be implemented in multiple stages, the EU mandates that all packaging must be recyclable by 2030. Single-use packaging items, such as small condiment sachets and mini shampoo bottles found in hotels, will be prohibited by 2030 if deemed unnecessary or if more environmentally friendly alternatives exist.

Additionally, the EU aims to decrease packaging waste by five percent by 2030 and 15 percent by 2040, relative to the levels in 2018. These regulations also encompass improved labeling to facilitate easier waste sorting for recycling, providing details on the materials used, disposal instructions, and return procedures for reuse.

The EU faces mounting pressure to implement a more comprehensive ban on PFAS, as experts caution these chemicals pose escalating risks to health and the environment. Chronic exposure to even minimal levels of PFAS has been associated with liver damage, elevated cholesterol, impaired immune function, reduced birth weights, and various forms of cancer. Despite a legislative proposal on PFAS being anticipated, it is not expected to be presented before the conclusion of 2026, according to European officials.