PPWR packaging
From 12 August 2026, the PPWR sets limits on the amount of PFAS in packaging that comes into contact with food.
PFAS are chemical substances that can occur in some materials.
At PouchDirect, we carefully check the available documentation for our packaging. If additional information is needed, we request it from our suppliers.
This helps you choose packaging with confidence that meets the applicable European requirements.
Yes, recyclability is an important part of the PPWR. From 2030, stricter requirements will be introduced step by step.
How recyclable a package is will be assessed using European criteria. Some of these criteria are still being developed. This means you cannot determine whether packaging will meet all future requirements based on the material alone.
PouchDirect follows these developments and takes them into account when developing and selecting pouches.
No. The PPWR does not require every pouch to be made from mono-material.
A pouch must meet the recyclability requirements that apply to that type of packaging. The complete packaging is taken into account, not just the main material. Mono-material, such as PE or PP, can help make a pouch more suitable for recycling, but it does not automatically guarantee that the packaging meets all PPWR requirements.
Yes. Mono PE and mono PP pouches provide a good basis for packaging designed for recycling.
However, the main material is not the only thing that matters. Parts such as the zipper and valve also affect recyclability. In addition, the European criteria for recyclability are still being further developed.
PouchDirect follows these developments and takes them into account when developing and selecting pouches.
That is why we always look at the complete material structure of a pouch, not just whether it is made from PE or PP.
No. Just because a pouch is made from paper does not automatically mean that it meets the PPWR requirements.
The complete packaging is taken into account. This includes the different materials, coatings, zipper and other parts. The weight, amount of material and recyclability also play a role.
Paper can therefore be a good choice, but this depends on the complete pouch and how it is made.
From 2030, several PPWR requirements will become more important for packaging in Europe.
Packaging will need to meet new recyclability requirements, and more attention must be paid to the amount of material used. For certain plastic packaging, requirements for the use of recycled material will also apply.
The exact requirements depend on the type of packaging.
Start by looking at the packaging you currently use. Check which materials and components the pouch is made from and how recyclable it is.
Then look at whether you can reduce unnecessary material and whether parts such as the zipper and valve fit well with the rest of the packaging.
Developing a new pouch? Take the future PPWR requirements into account from the start.
PouchDirect can help assess your current or new pouch.
No. You do not need to keep track of every rule and change within the PPWR yourself.
PouchDirect follows the regulations and translates them into what matters for your packaging. We help you choose a pouch that suits your product while taking current and future PPWR requirements into account.
This allows you to focus on your product while we bring the packaging knowledge needed to make the right choice.
The best choice depends on your product and the requirements the packaging needs to meet. There is no single material that is the best choice for every product.
A good pouch protects the product, supports the required shelf life and does not use more material than necessary. At the same time, you should consider the recyclability of the complete packaging.
Within the supply chain, we all share the responsibility to comply with the PPWR. In this process, PouchDirect acts as the importer and distributor of the empty packaging. However, the moment you fill the pouches and place them on the market as a filled product under your own brand, you (as the filler or brand owner) are responsible for the reporting and registration obligations (such as with your national packaging registers). Of course, we won't leave you out in the cold! We fully support you in this obligation by providing all the necessary technical documentation regarding the packaging itself. Together, we will make sure everything is perfectly sorted!