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Our Food Packaging range

PFAS and food packaging: what PPWR means and how kp is prepared

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large group of fluorinated substances that may be used in materials for specific performance properties including resistance to heat, grease and moisture.
 
The EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) introduces clear requirements for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in food contact packaging.
 
From 12 August 2026, packaging that exceeds defined PFAS thresholds cannot be placed on the EU market, regardless of whether PFAS has been intentionally added or is present due to contamination.
 
For food packaging manufacturers and users, PFAS is therefore a non-negotiable compliance requirement that must be considered early in the design process.

What PPWR requires (and what it does not)

PPWR introduces a clear and measurable compliance framework:
 
  • The regulation does not require packaging to be PFAS-free
  • It requires compliance with defined thresholds (<50 ppm) for total PFAS content
  • This applies whether PFAS is intentionally added or present unintentionally (e.g. via recycled content)
In practice, compliance is based on supplier data, including raw material declarations and technical data sheets, supported by appropriate quality checks where required.
 
Key takeaway: PFAS compliance should be addressed at the earliest stage of packaging design.

UK perspective: EPR and PFAS

In the UK, PFAS considerations are reflected within the Recyclability Assessment Methodology (RAM), which is used to determine EPR fees.
 
RAM evaluates packaging across its full life cycle, including collection, sorting and reprocessing.

Where PFAS is intentionally added (for example for performance reasons), packaging may be classified unfavourably, increasing EPR-related costs.
 
Key takeaway: Avoiding intentionally added PFAS is critical to maintaining favourable recyclability ratings and managing EPR costs in the UK.

kp Food Packaging approach

kp Food Packaging materials are designed for tomorrow’s regulations
 
Our materials are designed in line with upcoming EU PFAS restrictions, including polymeric PFAS, applying from 12 August 2026. This is part of the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR – Regulation (EU) 2025/40).
 
They are also designed in accordance with UK regulatory frameworks and recyclability assessment criteria, including PFAS considerations under the RAM.

Across our portfolio, we focus on:
 
  • Designing materials to meet regulatory thresholds
  • Avoiding intentionally added PFAS wherever possible
  • Working closely with suppliers to ensure robust material data
  • Embedding compliance into the earliest stages of product development

Important note (compliance clarity)

PFAS compliance is assessed against regulatory thresholds and material composition data.
 
Where required, verification may include supplier declarations and targeted analytical testing.
 
Customers with specific requirements are encouraged to discuss these with their kp contact to ensure alignment with intended applications and local regulatory expectations.