EU confirms PFAS limits for food contact packaging from 12 August 2026

The EU's Expert Group on Waste has confirmed that restriction limits on PFAS in food contact packaging apply from 12 August 2026. A dedicated PFAS task force is developing harmonised sampling and testing protocols, as laboratory capacity across the EU remains uneven for detecting trace-level PFAS.

Why this mattersFood packaging makers using greaseproof paper and moulded fibre must complete PFAS-free reformulation before compliance testing standards are even finalised.

• PFAS restriction limits for food contact packaging apply from 12 August 2026 in the EU.
• The rules target specific PFAS compounds or total PFAS content in materials in direct contact with food.
• A dedicated PFAS task force is developing common sampling and analytical testing methods.
• EU laboratory testing capacity for trace-level PFAS detection is described as inconsistent.
• PFAS have been used in greaseproof paper and takeout containers for water- and oil-repellent properties.

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