News from Chemical Analysis:

PPWR 2026: New Requirements for Packaging and Packaging Materials

The new EU Packaging Regulation PPWR – Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation – 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. Among other things, requirements regarding ingredients, recyclability, recycled content, packaging minimization, reuse, labeling, and documentation 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 here for the first time. Particularly in the case of coated paper and cardboard packaging, plastics, or functionalized composite materials, a more detailed examination of the materials and ingredients used may therefore be necessary.

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, for example, the total fluorine content (TF) as well as organically and inorganically bound fluorine fractions can be examined. 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 application depends, among other factors, on the material, structure, intended use, food contact, coatings, and available supplier information.

In our technical article, learn about the requirements the PPWR will bring starting in 2026, which packaging types are affected by the PFAS limits, and how analytical testing can help you prepare for the new regulations.

>>> Learn more about the PPWR and Packaging analysis