On 22 January 2025, the European Union published Regulation (EU) 2025/40 on packaging and packaging waste (PPWR) in the Official Journal. Among other provisions, it introduces comprehensive restrictions on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in food contact materials.
The PPWR harmonises the regulatory framework for packaging and packaging waste across the EU and enhances the smooth functioning of the internal market while reducing the environmental and health impacts associated with packaging. PFAS are a particular focus due to their persistence, as they are hardly degradable (“forever chemicals”) and can accumulate in the environment, humans and animals.
Article 5 of the PPWR sets concrete limit values for PFAS in food-contact packaging for the first time:
- Individual PFAS: 25 ppb
- Sum of PFAS: 250 ppb
- Total fluorine: 50 ppm
These limit values for PFAS will apply from 12 August 2026. Food-contact packaging that exceeds these limits may no longer be placed on the market from that date onward.
