Regulatory update: Preparing for the new EU Packaging & Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR)
Sustainability is no longer a differentiator, it is becoming a regulatory requirement. As the European Union accelerates its transition toward a circular economy, the new Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR – EU 2025/40) introduces a harmonised framework that will significantly reshape packaging requirements across industries. The regulation will apply from 12 August 2026, bringing stricter obligations related to packaging composition, recyclability, recycled content, chemical safety, traceability, and compliance documentation.
Under PPWR, companies placing products on the EU market will need to demonstrate that their packaging meets increasingly demanding sustainability and safety criteria. Requirements extend beyond recyclability and include restrictions on substances of concern, such as PFAS and heavy metals, as well as enhanced documentation and conformity assessment processes. Non-compliant packaging may face barriers to market access, making early preparation essential.
To support manufacturers, brand owners, and packaging suppliers in navigating this evolving regulatory landscape, Eurofins Cosmetics & Personal Care offers a comprehensive portfolio of PPWR-compliant testing and analytical solutions. These services include the detection of critical substances, verification of compliance with regulatory thresholds, recyclability assessments, and the generation of audit-ready reports to facilitate regulatory submissions.
Leveraging its global laboratory network and extensive regulatory expertise, Eurofins Cosmetics & Personal Care helps clients assess risks, demonstrate compliance, and future-proof their packaging strategies. By combining advanced analytical capabilities with regulatory support, Eurofins Cosmetics & Personal Care enables organisations to address PPWR requirements efficiently while maintaining innovation, product performance, and market readiness.
As the compliance deadline approaches, businesses are encouraged to evaluate their packaging portfolios now and identify potential gaps before the new requirements come into force. Early action will not only help ensure compliance but also support broader sustainability goals and strengthen consumer confidence in increasingly environmentally conscious markets.