What companies need to know about packaging now

The new EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) introduces comprehensive new requirements for companies throughout the packaging and supply chain. Regulation (EU) 2025/40 is already in force and will generally apply starting August 12, 2026. Requirements regarding ingredients, recyclability, recycled content, packaging minimization, reuse, labeling, and documentation, among other things, will gradually come into effect. The new requirements are particularly specific for packaging that comes into contact with food. Starting August 12, 2026, explicit limit values for Per- and Polyfluorinated Alkyl Substances (PFAS) will apply for the first time. Therefore, a more detailed examination of the materials and ingredients used may be necessary, particularly for coated paper and cardboard packaging, plastics, or functionalized composite materials.

Analytical validation of packaging

Laboratory analyses can help companies obtain reliable information about the composition of their packaging materials and fill existing data gaps. Depending on the material and the specific question at hand, for example, the Total Fluorine content (TF) as well as organically and inorganically bound fluorine can be analyzed. Targeted PFAS analyses, the determination of heavy metals, or the characterization of plastics, coatings, and recycled materials can also be part of a suitable testing strategy. The results provide important analytical data for technical evaluation, quality assurance, supplier qualification, and documentation. Which tests are appropriate for a specific packaging depend, among other factors, on the material, structure, intended use, food contact, coatings, and available supplier information.

Read our technical article to learn about the requirements of the PPWR starting in 2026, which packaging products are affected by the PFAS limits, and how analytical testing can help you prepare for the new regulations.