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

New EU restrictions on toxic substances known as forever chemicals in food packaging came into effect on Wednesday, accompanied by broader rules aimed at reducing packaging waste across the bloc. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a class of synthetic chemicals that break down extremely slowly, are facing growing restrictions worldwide because of potential health impacts.

According to a European Commission statement, food-contact packaging containing PFAS above specific limits can no longer be sold within the EU. The European Union seeks to cut packaging waste, which has risen due to increased online shopping and on-the-go consumption in the 27-member states. Under the new rules, phased into place beginning in 2027, all packaging must be recyclable by 2030.

Single-use items like small sauce packets and mini shampoo bottles in hotels will also be prohibited in 2030 if deemed unnecessary or if more sustainable alternatives exist. Targets are set to reduce packaging waste by five percent by 2030 and 15 percent by 2040 compared to 2018 levels. The regulations also call for improved labeling to simplify waste sorting for recycling, including details about composition, disposal locations, and reuse processes.

The EU is facing pressure for a broader ban on forever chemicals, with health and environmental risks linked to chronic exposure to even low PFAS levels. While a legislative proposal on PFAS is promised, it is not anticipated before the end of 2026 according to European officials.