More change ahead for EU food and beverage regulations in 2025
A couple of the EU’s planned sustainability regulations stalled in 2024, but it doesn’t mean that sustainability is no longer a priority. The coming year will likely see the emergence of new approaches and the evolution of existing frameworks to ensure regulations are more closely aligned with the realities of the food and beverage sector.
Read on for more insights on regulatory trends in the EU. If you’re not a member of Leatherhead Food Research, sign up for our special non-members webinar on 29 January: Horizon Scanning: Discover Key Shifts Ahead for Global Food Regulations
Join our webinar
Horizon Scanning: Discover Key Shifts Ahead for Global Food Regulations
29 January, 2025 - 15:00 GMT, 10:00 EST
Based on the European Council’s 2024-29 Strategic Agenda we expect greater emphasis on balancing food security with environmental sustainability. This may mean that upstream sustainability matters are addressed differently. However, downstream regulations surrounding packaging and green claims are unlikely to change course. In fact, the EU’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) will have a profound impact on food business operators over the next two years.
New packaging requirements
The PPWR cleared its final legislative hurdle in late December 2024. It was published in the Official Journal on January 22, 2025, and will take effect in stages. EU member states and food business operators will face specific targets and responsibilities across three key areas:
- Safe, sustainable and recyclable packaging
- Single-use plastic packaging
- Re-use targets and re-fill obligations.
Measures include requirements for a minimum percentage of recycled content in packaging materials, avoidance of unnecessary packaging, and restrictions on single-use plastic packaging. The impact of PPWR will be significant. We advise building a good understanding of packaging used throughout the supply chain and preparing for the forthcoming requirements without delay.
Navigating changing regulations
There is a great deal of uncertainty over evolving and emerging sustainability regulations in the EU at present. This can make it hard to determine priorities and allocate resources. Food business operators must be vigilant so they can adapt to changing requirements in good time. Our expert consultants can work alongside you, identifying regulatory developments that are relevant to your business and guiding your response.
Join our webinar – 29 January, 2025
Mariko Kubo, Head of Global Regulatory, will be covering some of these topics in a specially-designed webinar for companies that aren’t already members of Leatherhead Food Research. If this applies to you, register now to gain an insight into the regulatory updates our members receive. The webinar will be held on Wednesday 29 January, 2025 at 15:00 – 15:40 (GMT) | 10:00 - 10:40 (EST).
Get in touch
In the meantime, contact us to discuss how our bespoke, expert-led regulatory horizon scanning service could support your business in 2025.
