As the European Union strengthens its sustainability regulations, the proposed Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) Regulation (EU) 2025/40 is set to transform industries. Among the most impacted sectors are food and food supplements, where packaging plays a crucial role in safety, labeling, compliance, and marketing.

Replacing the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive (PPWD), the PPWR introduces stricter rules and binding targets aimed at reducing environmental impact. For manufacturers, this regulation represents both a challenge and an opportunity to align with the EU Green Deal and Circular Economy Action Plan.

What Is the PPWR?

The Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (EU) 2025/40 is designed to ensure that all packaging in the EU market is recyclable or reusable by 2030. Its key objectives include:

• Reducing overall packaging waste
• Promoting reuse and refill systems
• Enhancing recyclability and composability
• Preventing greenwashing through strict labeling rules
• Harmonizing packaging requirements across all EU Member States

Key Regulatory Changes for Food & Supplement Manufacturers

1. Recyclability Requirements

By 2030, all packaging must be designed for recyclability. Multilayer plastics and non-recyclable materials must be phased out or redesigned, requiring innovation in food and supplement packaging.

2. Mandatory Reuse Targets

Reusable packaging will become standard for takeaway food, beverages, and e-commerce shipments. Manufacturers will need infrastructure for collection, cleaning, and redistribution.

3. Restrictions on Excess Packaging

Oversized packaging and unnecessary materials will face restrictions. Companies must prove that their packaging is optimized for efficiency and sustainability.

4. Labeling Obligations

Packaging must include clear disposal instructions and material identification. Vague eco-friendly claims will not be accepted, ensuring consumer clarity.

5. Digital Product Passports

Manufacturers may be required to provide digital access to information on material composition, recyclability, and sustainability credentials.

Impact on the Food & Food Supplement Industry

The implementation of Regulation (EU) 2025/40 will bring major shifts for manufacturers:

• Reformulation of Packaging: Non-compliant multilayer materials must be replaced.
• Higher Compliance Costs: Sustainable redesign, labeling updates, and testing will increase expenses.
• Market Access Risks: Non-compliant products risk rejection in EU markets.
• Supply Chain Adjustments: Region-specific packaging may disrupt global supply chains.
• Monitoring Green Claims: Any claim like "eco-friendly" must be scientifically substantiated.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Failure to comply with the PPWR may result in:

• Fines and penalties from EU Member States
• Mandatory product recalls
• Restricted EU market access
• Loss of consumer trust due to misleading or vague sustainability claims

How Maven Regulatory Solutions Can Support PPWR Compliance

At Maven Regulatory Solutions, we provide end-to-end regulatory support to help food and supplement companies transition to PPWR compliance:

• Packaging Compliance Audits – Assess current packaging against EU 2025/40 requirements
• Label and Green Claims Review – Verify claims for accuracy and compliance
• Recyclability & Environmental Labeling Guidance – Ensure proper design and disposal instructions
• Packaging Redesign Support – Develop compliant, reusable, and recyclable packaging strategies
• Regulatory Intelligence & Updates – Stay informed on evolving Member State implementation
• Cross-functional Regulatory Services – Integrated expertise across packaging, compliance, and marketing

The Time to Act Is Now

The PPWR is more than a regulation is a shift toward a sustainable and circular economy. For food and supplement manufacturers, early action is essential to ensure compliance, minimize risks, and secure EU market access. Maven Regulatory Solutions can help you evaluate your packaging, implement compliant labeling, and prepare for the upcoming sustainability standards.

???? Start preparing today to secure long-term success in the EU market.