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

Starting in 2030, the European Union will enforce new restrictions on toxic chemicals called forever chemicals, also known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), in food packaging. These synthetic substances, which take an exceptionally long time to break down, have been linked to various adverse health effects, prompting stricter regulations globally.

A European Commission statement announced that food-contact packaging containing PFAS above specific limits will no longer be permitted in the EU market. The EU aims to tackle packaging waste, which has skyrocketed due to increased online shopping and on-the-go consumption across its 27-member countries. Under the upcoming rules, all packaging must be recyclable by 2030, and single-use items like small sauce packets and mini shampoo bottles in hotels will be banned if deemed unnecessary or if greener alternatives exist.

The bloc also targets a 5% reduction in packaging waste by 2030 and 15% by 2040 compared to 2018 levels. To facilitate waste sorting, enhanced labeling requirements will be implemented, providing details on the materials used, disposal instructions, and reuse options. The EU faces mounting pressure to impose a comprehensive ban on forever chemicals, with health experts warning of the growing health and environmental risks.

While chronic exposure to even minimal levels of PFAS has been associated with liver damage, high cholesterol, weakened immune responses, low birth weights, and several types of cancer, a legislative proposal on PFAS is not anticipated before the end of 2026, according to European officials.