Romania applies new EU limits on PFAS in food-contact packaging
New EU packaging rules applying in Romania set strict limits on PFAS in materials that come into contact with food. The regulation also harmonizes producer obligations and introduces identification requirements, while broader recyclability and reuse rules will be phased in through 2030.
PFAS limits take effect for food packaging
The first provisions of the European Union’s new Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation became applicable on 12 August, introducing common requirements for packaging producers and importers across member states, including Romania. DCNews, citing the European Commission and Agerpres, reported that the measures are intended to reduce packaging waste, restrict harmful substances and replace fragmented national requirements with a more uniform framework for the EU single market.
A central change concerns packaging that comes into contact with food. The regulation establishes strict limits on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, which are often described as “forever chemicals” because of their persistence in the environment. The requirements affect food-contact packaging such as disposable cups and plastic films, making chemical composition a direct compliance issue for packaging manufacturers, food processors, restaurant suppliers and importers.
The European Commission said the limits are designed to strengthen protection for consumers and the environment. Jessika Roswall, European Commissioner for Environment, Water Resilience and a Competitive Circular Economy, said restricting harmful substances such as PFAS would improve the safety of food-contact packaging while reducing dependence on virgin materials.
Common obligations for producers and importers
The initial provisions also harmonize definitions covering manufacturers and producers subject to extended producer responsibility for packaging. Certain packaging must now carry markings and information that allow the relevant producer or importer to be identified and contacted. For companies selling across several EU markets, the common definitions could simplify compliance, although Roswall acknowledged that the regulation will create adjustment costs.
The Commission has published implementation guidance and an updated frequently asked questions document. It plans to continue working with member states and affected industries to promote consistent application. The common rules are also intended to facilitate trade within the EU by reducing the need for businesses to navigate different national packaging regimes.
The changes are particularly relevant to suppliers of takeaway and convenience-food packaging. Producers will need to review materials, supplier documentation and product markings, while importers will require reliable information about chemical content and the identity of manufacturers. Food businesses purchasing cups, films and other contact materials may also need to verify that their suppliers meet the new requirements.
Broader measures will follow through 2030
The full regulation is not taking effect at once. Additional provisions will be introduced in stages, with an important group of obligations becoming applicable from 2030. These measures include packaging recyclability requirements, reuse targets and restrictions on certain formats of single-use plastic packaging, including very small formats used in hotels and restaurants.
The phased schedule is intended to give companies and national authorities time to adapt. It also means packaging suppliers face a sequence of investment and compliance decisions rather than a single deadline. Material selection, product design, labeling systems and reusable alternatives could all require changes as later provisions become applicable.
The Commission estimates that each European discards about half a kilogram of packaging per day. This includes disposable coffee cups, beverage capsules, plastic films and packaging generated by online shopping. Alongside waste reduction and higher recycling rates, the regulation aims to reduce Europe’s dependence on imported fossil fuels used to manufacture most plastic packaging. For Romania’s packaging and food-service sectors, the immediate priority is PFAS compliance and traceability, while the larger redesign of packaging portfolios will extend toward 2030.
