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

Starting Wednesday, the European Union has implemented stringent new regulations targeting toxic substances known as "forever chemicals" in food packaging. These regulations join broader initiatives aimed at reducing overall packaging waste within the EU. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a group of synthetic chemicals that are remarkably persistent in the environment, have come under increasing scrutiny due to their potential health impacts.

Starting now, any food-contact packaging containing PFAS exceeding certain limits will no longer be permitted on the EU market, according to a statement from the European Commission. The EU's focus extends beyond mere restrictions; it also seeks to tackle the significant surge in packaging waste, notably fueled by the continent's surge in online shopping and on-the-go consumption.

A key objective of the EU's new rules is to ensure that all packaging becomes recyclable by 2030. Single-use packaging items, such as small sauce packets and mini shampoo bottles often found in hotels, will also be banned in 2030 if deemed unnecessary or if more sustainable alternatives are available. Additionally, the EU aims to cut packaging waste by 5% by 2030 and 15% by 2040 compared to the figures from 2018.

Included among the measures are improved labeling standards to facilitate easier waste sorting for recycling. This will involve providing information on what the packaging is made of, disposal instructions, and return options for reuse. The EU is facing mounting pressure to extend these bans on "forever chemicals" further, as experts warn of the growing health and environmental risks associated with chronic exposure to even low levels of PFAS.

These chemicals have been linked to serious health issues, including liver damage, high cholesterol, compromised immune responses, low birth weights, and various forms of cancer.

While a comprehensive legislative proposal on PFAS is expected, it is anticipated to be finalized by the end of 2026, according to European officials. Currently, there is no legislative measure on PFAS in place. The phased implementation of these packaging regulations mandates that food-contact packaging meeting stringent PFAS limits cannot be placed on the market.