PPWR and food packaging: what has applied since 12.08.2026?
Since 12.08.2026, PFAS limits have also applied to packaging in contact with food: individual PFAS 25 ng/g, sum of PFAS 250 ng/g, total fluorine 50 mg/kg (Art. 5(5) PPWR). Suitability under food law remains a separate requirement and is still mandatory.
As of: 16.10.2026 · Reviewed by: Editorial team Elke Plastic GmbH · Information provided without guarantee, not legal advice.
The PFAS limits at a glance
| Parameter | Limit | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Individual PFAS (targeted analysis, excluding polymeric PFAS) | 25 ng/g | ng/g corresponds to ppb |
| Sum of PFAS (targeted analysis, excluding polymeric PFAS) | 250 ng/g | ng/g corresponds to ppb |
| Total fluorine (including polymeric PFAS) | 50 mg/kg | mg/kg corresponds to ppm |
In addition, a combined limit of no more than 100 mg/kg for lead, cadmium, mercury and hexavalent chromium applies to all packaging. More on this: PFAS and heavy metals in packaging.
The PPWR and food law are two separate sets of requirements
The PPWR covers substances, evidence and, later, recyclability. Whether packaging is suitable for contact with food is governed by food contact law, which for plastics includes Regulations (EC) No 1935/2004 and (EU) No 10/2011. Both must be met: a PPWR declaration of conformity does not replace suitability for food contact.
The evidence you need for food packaging
- Declaration of conformity under food contact law for the item
- PPWR declaration of conformity and the manufacturer's technical documentation
- Evidence on PFAS (targeted analysis and total fluorine)
- Evidence on heavy metals (sum no more than 100 mg/kg)
- Marking with the glass-and-fork symbol if the item is not clearly intended for food
The documents for our items are in the data sheet archive. You will find a supplier checklist under Declaration of conformity.
Typical uses and matching collections
- Bakery and patisserie: Bakery Packaging, Patisserie Packaging
- Coffee, tea, spices: Coffee Packaging, Tea packaging, Spice Packaging
- Food in general: Food packaging
Background on bakery: Bakery packaging 2026.
Frequently asked questions
Since when have the PFAS limits applied to food packaging?
Since 12.08.2026. From that day the PPWR has applied, and the restriction covers packaging in contact with food (Art. 5(5)).
Is a PE bag automatically food-safe?
No. Polyethylene is suitable as a material in principle, but what matters is whether the specific item is suitable for food contact and the corresponding evidence. Plain bags without a corresponding statement have not been tested for this.
Do the PFAS limits also apply to paper and composite packaging?
The restriction applies to packaging in contact with food in general, not only to plastic.
Does the PPWR declaration of conformity replace the evidence for food contact?
No. The PPWR declaration confirms the PPWR requirements. Suitability for food contact is demonstrated separately under food contact law.