From 12 August 2026, the limits established by the European Regulation on packaging and packaging waste (PPWR, Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation) for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in food-contact packaging apply.
PFAS is the acronym for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. For food-contact packaging, the Regulation establishes the following limits:
The 50 ppm limit applies to the concentration of PFAS and not to total fluorine. If total fluorine exceeds 50 milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg), the Regulation provides that, upon request, evidence must be provided to distinguish fluorine attributable to PFAS from fluorine originating from other substances.
The European Commission guidance published in June 2026 describes a stepwise approach to compliance testing: total fluorine is initially measured and, if the result exceeds 50 mg/kg, additional analyses are performed to determine whether the detected fluorine is attributable to PFAS. The guidance also clarifies that no transitional period is provided for the use-up of non-compliant packaging stocks manufactured before 12 August 2026.
Companies concerned should verify the composition of food-contact packaging, request the necessary information and analytical evidence from their suppliers, and update their technical documentation accordingly.
Links and sources: