Starting 12 August 2026, the new European regulation PPWR (EU2025/40) will prohibit food packaging containing PFAS beyond strict limits. This is an important step toward protecting consumer health, and inDUfed fully supports this objective. However, the transition poses significant challenges for businesses:
- Incomplete PFAS substance lists
- Lack of validated analysis methods
- High testing costs
Without clear guidance, these obstacles risk creating uncertainty and market disruption.
Our Position
To ensure effective implementation and maintain confidence in food packaging safety, inDUfed recommends:
- Assigning the control of PFAS to FPS Public Health – DG APF and FASFC, the competent authorities for food-contact materials. Fragmenting responsibilities would weaken policy coherence.
- Confirming the RISE protocol and the list of 24 targeted PFAS, which provide a practical and science-based approach to compliance. Studies show that most paper and board packaging already meets PPWR limits.
- Allowing manufacturers to demonstrate compliance through Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and supplier declarations, creating a transparent and verifiable chain of responsibility without unnecessary burdens.
Why This Matters
RISE and the European Commission have shown that a total fluorine analysis is sufficient to assess PFAS levels. When fluorine remains below 50 ppm, individual PFAS concentrations also stay within legal limits. This approach avoids costly and redundant testing while ensuring consumer safety.
Our Call to Action
We urge the Belgian government to:
- Confirm the RISE protocol and PFAS list
- Adapt control activities accordingly
- Support businesses in applying GMP and supplier declarations as proof of compliance
By doing so, Belgium can guarantee safe, sustainable, and compliant food packaging while preserving market stability.
