The European PPWR Regulation introduces new obligations for packaging and packaging waste. For food manufacturers, it will not just be a question of recycling. Changes will also affect packaging labelling, QR codes, information on material composition, recycled content and technical documentation. The first important obligations will start in August 2026, with more to follow between 2028 and 2030.
PPWR means that packaging will need to carry more accurate and verifiable information. It should be easy for the consumer to know what material the packaging is made of, how to sort it correctly and whether it contains recycled material. For some packaging, it will be possible to provide this information using a QR code. Food producers should therefore already anticipate that the requirements for labels, printing and labelling will change in the production process.
Recommended practical checklist for manufacturing companies
Map all packaging used:
- Find out the material composition of packaging, labels, caps, films, adhesives and prints. Check food packaging for PFAS
- Grease and moisture resistant packaging is a priority. Prepare space for new signage.
- When redesigning your labels, count on a harmonised label or QR code now. Make sure you can print quality QR codes.
- The QR code must be readable, stable and correctly linked to the data. Request data from packaging suppliers.
- In particular material composition, recycled content, recyclability and possible substances of concern. Link legislation to on line labelling.
- The marking must correspond to the specific product, packaging, batch and market.