PPWR Packaging Rules for Food Businesses: 2026 Checklist

What changed on 12 August 2026

PPWR replaces the old directive approach with directly applicable packaging rules across the EU. For UK food businesses that sell into the EU, supply EU customers, franchise abroad or buy packaging for EU-market products, it is no longer a distant sustainability topic. It now affects which packaging can be placed on the EU market and what evidence should sit behind compliance claims.

The most immediate issue is food-contact packaging containing PFAS above the PPWR limits. These substances were historically used for grease and water resistance in some paper, board and fibre packaging, so buyers should look closely at takeaway boxes, wrappers, bakery papers, pizza boxes, greaseproof paper, bowls, trays and lidded containers.

The quick PPWR checklist for food packaging buyers

Use this as a buying checklist before committing to a new food packaging range.

• Ask whether food-contact packaging is PFAS free or below the PPWR PFAS limits, especially for grease-resistant paper, board and fibre items.
• Check whether the supplier can provide a relevant test report, certificate or declaration for the item being supplied.
• Review whether the packaging is designed for recycling or a credible composting route, rather than relying on vague eco wording.
• Avoid oversized packaging and unnecessary void space when a smaller container will protect and present the food properly.
• Plan ahead for EU harmonised material and sorting labels due later under PPWR implementation.
• For plastic packaging, start asking about recycled-content pathways ahead of 2030 requirements for relevant categories.

PFAS is the most immediate food-packaging issue

PFAS matters because it is directly linked to grease-resistant food packaging. PPWR introduces limits for food-contact packaging, including 25 ppb for an individual targeted PFAS and 250 ppb for the sum of targeted PFAS, with a further total PFAS limit. Some laboratory reports also include total fluorine screening to support assessment.

The stock position matters too. The European Commission guidance says there is no general sell-through period for non-compliant food-contact packaging produced before 12 August 2026 if it had not already been placed on the market. In practical terms, buyers should not assume old stock is acceptable just because it was made before the date.

Where DORU fits for UK and London food businesses

DORU focuses on practical takeaway packaging, restaurant packaging and custom food packaging for UK food businesses, with a dedicated London fleet and next-day delivery options for suitable stock orders. For compliance-sensitive items, we can help you select PFAS-free and BPA-free options where relevant and request product-specific documents before you scale an order.

The SGS report linked on this page relates to DORU sugarcane bagasse tablewares and records pass results for PPWR heavy metals, PPWR PFAS content and total fluorine testing on the submitted sample. For a live order, always match the document to the exact product, material and production batch you are buying.

What to do next

If you are buying kraft bowls, bagasse clamshells, sushi trays, paper soup cups, noodle boxes, greaseproof paper, coffee cups or lids, ask for the product name, material, food-contact status, PFAS position and available compliance document before switching supplier. DORU can help you compare those details against price, delivery and custom-print options.

Author

Lan Olitoquit

Creative and Marketing Professional

Lan is a creative and marketing professional with over seven years of experience. He transforms brand messaging into compelling digital experiences, using data to craft high-converting campaigns. He is currently pursuing an MBA at San Beda College Alabang, bridging what business knows with what business does.

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