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

EU regulations on toxic chemicals, called forever chemicals, went into effect on Wednesday, accompanied by broader measures to reduce packaging waste in the European Union. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a group of synthetic chemicals that persist in the environment for an exceptionally long time, are the subject of heightened restrictions globally due to their potential health hazards.

According to a European Commission statement, food packaging containing PFAS exceeding specific limits can no longer be introduced to the EU market. The EU aims to reduce packaging waste, which has surged along with the growth of online shopping and on-the-go consumption across the 27-member countries. By 2030, all packaging must be recyclable, and single-use items such as small sauce packets and mini shampoo bottles in hotels will be prohibited if deemed unnecessary or if sustainable alternatives exist.

The bloc also seeks to cut packaging waste by 5% by 2030 and 15% by 2040 compared to 2018 levels. These regulations encompass improved labeling to facilitate waste sorting for recycling, providing details on composition, disposal methods, and reuse procedures. The EU is facing pressure for a wider ban on forever chemicals, with experts warning of their escalating health and environmental risks.

Chronic exposure to even low levels of PFAS has been associated with liver damage, high cholesterol, weakened immune responses, low birth weights, and various forms of cancer. Despite a proposed legislative action on PFAS, officials anticipate its implementation by the end of 2026.