EU-wide restriction on ketchup and mayonnaise sachets from 2030
Away with ketchup packets, disposable bath bottles and plastic bags from the European market.
Away with ketchup packets, disposable bath bottles and plastic bags from the European market.
The European Union is preparing to say goodbye to disposable plastic packaging once and for all with the implementation in all 27 EU countries from 12 August 2026 of the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation, published in the EU Official Journal on 22 January 2025.
What will happen from 12 August 2026
The first ban concerns Pfas (perfluoroalkylated substances), a family of synthetic chemical compounds created to be water, fat and high temperature resistant, used in commonly used products such as stick-resistant cookware (Teflon), technical textiles (Gore-Tex), food packaging and fire-fighting foams.
Many food packaging, from oiled papers to plastic bags, use these substances to ensure impermeability to oils and liquids. As of 12 August 2026, if a package exceeds the limits set by the regulation, it will automatically become illegal.
What will happen from 1 January 2030
The real squeeze will come on 1 January 2030, when economic operators will be banned from placing certain types of disposable packaging on the market, including the sachets used for condiments, preserves, sauces, coffee creamers, sugar and spices readily available in bars and restaurants.
