EU Bans 'Forever Chemicals' from Food Packaging, Phasing in New Rules

New European Union regulations on packaging and packaging waste are now in effect, targeting "forever chemicals" like PFAS and Bisphenol A in food packaging. These substances, which do not degrade in the environment, have been linked to various health risks, including cancers and hormonal disorders.

The "forever chemicals" PFAS will be banned in specific concentrations in food packaging like burger boxes and fries bags. Bisphenol A will also be removed from certain food-contact materials, with a temporary exemption for protective layers in cans of fruit, vegetables, and fish until July 2028. Stricter limits on heavy metals such as cadmium, lead, mercury, and hexavalent chromium are also being enforced, capping their total concentration at 100 milligrams per kilogram.

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The proof that packaging no longer contains prohibited substances will be the declaration of conformity and the accompanying technical documentation.

Parallel to these chemical restrictions, the EU is introducing minimum recycled content requirements for plastic packaging. It's also cracking down on unnecessary packaging volume, limiting empty space to 50% of the total volume for general packaging and 40% for e-commerce. This aims to end the practice of packing small products in oversized boxes.

Gordana Pehnec from the Croatian Chamber of Economy (HGK) explained that proof of compliance will involve a declaration of conformity and technical documentation. Most other changes await delegated and implementing acts from the European Commission, due by 2029, with application from 2030. Initial public concerns about immediate bans on single-use condiment sachets and small hotel toiletries were clarified by the Croatian Chamber of Commerce (HOK). Dalibor Kratohvil, head of HOK, stated that such single-use plastic packaging will be tolerated until 2030, with most obligations for the catering sector phased in over the next few years. Specifically, by February 12, 2027, "take-away" food and drink providers must allow customers to use their own containers, and by February 12, 2028, they must offer reusable packaging options.

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The biggest part of the obligations for the catering sector does not apply immediately, but gradually over the next few years.