From August 12, 2026, new European Union rules on packaging and packaging waste begin to apply, including restrictions on so-called “forever chemicals” known as PFAS in packaging intended to come into contact with food. The measures form part of the EU’s new Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation, or PPWR, which introduces common requirements across all member states.
PFAS is the collective name for a large group of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. They have been used because of their resistance to water, grease and heat and can be found in a wide range of products and materials. Their extreme persistence is also why they are commonly called “forever chemicals”, as some PFAS break down extremely slowly and can accumulate in the environment and the human body.
The new EU rules do not represent a complete ban on all PFAS in every type of product. The measure applying from August 12 specifically affects packaging intended to come into contact with food. Such packaging can no longer be placed on the EU market if it contains PFAS at or above the concentration limits established by the regulation.
PFAS have been used in materials where resistance to water or grease is required. In food packaging, this can include certain takeaway containers, fast-food wrappers, microwave popcorn bags, bakery paper, pizza boxes and other grease-resistant materials. The purpose of the new restrictions is to reduce unnecessary exposure to these substances through materials that come into direct contact with food.
The change is only one part of a much broader reform of packaging rules across the European Union. Regulation (EU) 2025/40 entered into force on February 11, 2025, but most of its provisions begin to apply from August 12, 2026. Other requirements will be introduced progressively over the coming years.
The legislation covers all packaging and packaging waste regardless of the material used. In addition to chemical safety, it establishes common European requirements concerning the design, manufacture, labelling, reuse and recycling of packaging.
A harmonised EU labelling system is also expected to be introduced progressively in the coming years. Its purpose is to make it easier for consumers to understand how different packaging materials should be disposed of and to improve separate waste collection and recycling across member states.
Further changes will follow toward the end of the decade. These include measures addressing excessive empty space in certain packaging, minimum recycled content requirements for some plastic packaging, reuse targets and restrictions on selected forms of single-use packaging. The legislation also establishes a long-term objective for packaging placed on the European market to be designed for recycling.
The European Commission says the wider goal is to reduce packaging waste, decrease the consumption of primary raw materials and create more consistent rules for companies operating throughout the EU single market.
The changes taking effect on August 12 should therefore not be viewed simply as a ban on certain chemicals. Restricting PFAS in food-contact packaging is one of the first practical elements of a much broader transformation in how packaging will be manufactured, used, labelled, reused and recycled across the European Union.
