Danish businesses seek help to comply with new EU packaging rules
Translated from Danish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- New EU packaging regulations took effect on August 12, requiring companies to document all packaging types and setting limits for PFAS in food-contact materials.
- Danish businesses are struggling to comply because the EU's guidance was only published nine days before the rules came into force.
- Business organizations are urging authorities to focus on guidance and support rather than immediate enforcement and fines.
Danish businesses face challenges in complying with new European Union regulations on packaging that took effect on August 12. The updated rules mandate that companies must be able to document all types of packaging they use. Additionally, a limit has been set for PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) in materials that come into contact with food.
Industry organizations are calling on authorities to prioritize guidance and support for companies navigating these complex new requirements. Dansk Erhverv (Danish Commerce) highlighted that the EU's guidance on the new rules was only released nine days before their implementation. This tight timeline has left many Danish companies in a difficult and chaotic situation, struggling to understand and meet the demands.
The authorities should postpone control and focus on guidance and on helping companies achieve their goals.
Brian Mikkelsen, CEO of Dansk Erhverv, criticized the late release of information, stating it places businesses in an "unreasonable, chaotic situation." He emphasized that the regulations are not simply a matter of filling out a new document but involve deep complexity. Similarly, Dansk Industri (Confederation of Danish Industry) has also requested that authorities refrain from issuing fines and instead focus on assisting businesses.
In Denmark, the Danish Energy Agency is responsible for overseeing compliance with these new packaging regulations. The business sector's plea is for a supportive approach from regulatory bodies during this transition period, allowing companies adequate time and resources to adapt to the stringent EU standards.
It is below all criticism and leaves companies in a completely unreasonable, chaotic situation. This is not just a new document for companies to fill out. This is deeply complex.
Originally published by Berlingske in Danish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.