Packaging: the decree comes into force today – here are the new rules and penalties

From today, new requirements come into force regarding packaging used for fresh fruit and vegetables, in the restaurant and catering sectors, for single-portion food items and in the hospitality sector: such packaging may only be placed on the domestic market for the first time if it is biodegradable and compostable and certified as such. This is set out in the Packaging Decree-Law, which was approved at the Council of Ministers meeting on Tuesday 4 August and published in the Official Gazette on 7 August.

Single-use plastic packaging used for pre-packaged fresh fruit and vegetables weighing less than 1.5 kg will be the first to have to comply with the criteria for biodegradability and compostability. The same applies to single-use plastic packaging for food and drink, which is filled and intended for consumption on the premises of the hotel, restaurant and catering sectors.

In the HoReCa sector, packaging containing individual portions of condiments – including preserves, sauces, coffee cream and sugar – will also have to comply with the new regulations. Exceptions, however, are made for packaging supplied with ready-to-eat takeaway food intended for immediate consumption without the need for further preparation, and for packaging used to ensure safety and hygiene in facilities such as hospitals, clinics or care homes.

Finally, the new decree applies to single-use flexible packaging for cosmetics and hygiene products used in the hospitality sector for tourists and travellers, intended for individual use and to be disposed of before the arrival of the next guest.

The decree provides for fines ranging from 2,500 to 25,000 euros – which will come into force from 1 January 2030 – for anyone who breaches the new rules, including by using declarations of conformity or other misleading or evasive wording.