About this article
Learn how PFAS regulation is evolving in Europe with the introduction of the EU Packaging & Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR). Article 5 introduces concentration thresholds for PFAS in food-contact packaging, adding a new compliance layer alongside REACH and the POP Regulation.
PFAS regulation in Europe is entering a new phase.
While individual PFAS substances such as PFOA are already restricted under REACH and the Persistent Organic Pollutants (POP) Regulation, the EU Packaging & Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) introduces a harmonised framework specifically addressing PFAS in food-contact packaging.
For businesses placing packaging on the EU market, the PFAS restrictions mark an important shift: from substance-by-substance bans to measurable, group-based compliance thresholds. So, what does this mean in practice?
What is the PPWR?
The Packaging & Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) is an EU regulation designed to harmonise packaging rules across all member states. Unlike a directive, a regulation applies directly in all EU countries without national transposition.
Article 5 of the PPWR addresses hazardous substances in packaging, including PFAS in food-contact materials.
What changes from 12 August 2026?
From 12 August 2026, food-contact packaging placed on the EU market must comply with defined limits for PFAS content.
In practice, this means:
- Specific thresholds are set for how much PFAS can be present
- Both individual substances and the total PFAS content are taken into account
The key takeaway: This is not a “zero PFAS” rule. Instead, compliance is based on measurable limits, making testing and verification essential.
How does this relate to REACH and existing PFAS restrictions?
REACH restricts specific substances individually, such as PFOA. The POP Regulation addresses certain persistent organic pollutants.
The PPWR does not replace these frameworks. Instead, it adds an additional layer of harmonised requirements specifically for food-contact packaging.
This means that businesses must ensure alignment with:
- Substance-specific restrictions under REACH
- POP Regulation requirements
- PFAS concentration thresholds under the PPWR
Understanding how these frameworks interact is essential for ensuring regulatory compliance across the EU.
Learn more about PFOA and existing restrictions.
How does this relate to national PFAS restrictions?
Before the PPWR introduced harmonised EU-wide thresholds, some Member States had already implemented national PFAS restrictions.
For example, Denmark and Netherlands introduced specific national measures addressing PFAS in food-contact materials. The Dutch legislation, in particular, established stricter rules for certain applications prior to the PPWR framework.
The PPWR now introduces EU-wide PFAS concentration thresholds for food-contact packaging, creating a common regulatory baseline across Member States. However, where national measures are stricter, those rules may continue to apply alongside the PPWR requirements.
You can read more about the Dutch PFAS restrictions in our dedicated article on the Dutch PFAS ban.
What does this mean in practice for businesses?
For manufacturers and importers placing food-contact packaging on the EU market, compliance under the PPWR includes:
- Ensuring packaging meets defined PFAS concentration limits
- Maintaining technical documentation demonstrating compliance
- Issuing an EU Declaration of Conformity (DoC)
Supply chain transparency and supplier verification will therefore become increasingly important.
Does this mean all packaging must be “PFAS-free”?
No.
The PPWR introduces concentration-based thresholds. It does not impose a universal ban on all PFAS in all contexts, nor does it automatically equate to “PFAS-free.”
Claims such as “PFAS-free” can be complex and require careful consideration. To learn more, read our article on why we do not claim our products are PFAS-free.
Navigating PFAS regulation with confidence
At Verive, we closely monitor developments in European packaging legislation and support our partners in understanding how evolving regulatory frameworks impact food-contact packaging.
Our portfolio is developed in line with applicable EU legislation, and we ensure alignment with PPWR requirements through structured supplier verification and compliance documentation. No PFAS are intentionally added during manufacturing, and all products adhere to current legal requirements.
If you would like to discuss how PFAS regulation or the PPWR may affect your packaging portfolio or sourcing strategy, our team is happy to advise.
Hannah Weber
"We turn complex regulations into practical guidance so we can help you make smarter, more sustainable choices."
