EU packaging regulation introduces fresh produce labelling, compostability requirements
Further guidance is expected by 12 February 2027.
EUROPE – The European Union’s new Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) requires fresh produce labels to be compostable and restricts certain fruit and vegetable packaging from 2030.
First, the PPWR applies from 12 August 2026 and replaces the previous Directive. For the agricultural sector, where packaging protects products, maintains food safety, and facilitates transport, the regulation introduces new considerations for businesses supplying the EU market.
The regulation aims to reduce the environmental and health impacts of packaging and support the transition towards a circular economy. Requirements are being phased in through to 2040.
Measures include reducing unnecessary packaging in quantity, weight, and volume, as well as certain single-use packaging formats. The regulation also limits substances such as PFAS and heavy metals, increases requirements for packaging recyclability and minimum recycled content, and introduces requirements for reusable and compostable packaging.
The regulation also includes provisions relevant to fresh produce. Certain packaging formats for fresh fruit and vegetables will be restricted from 2030, subject to exemptions. Sticky labels attached to fruit and vegetables will need to meet compostability requirements.
Further guidance is expected by 12 February 2027. It will include examples of packaging formats in scope and a non-exhaustive list of fruit and vegetables excluded from the restriction.
Meanwhile, GLOBALG.A.P. solutions already address compliance with applicable legislation. Existing requirements across GLOBALG.A.P. Integrated Farm Assurance for plants v6, aquaculture v6, Compound Feed Manufacturing v3.1, and Produce Handling Assurance v1.2 cover areas relevant to packaging management.
More importantly, GLOBALG.A.P. certification does not replace an organization’s responsibility to comply with the PPWR.
With different PPWR provisions taking effect between 2026 and 2040, producers and supply chain stakeholders supplying the EU market will need to determine which requirements apply and when.
The primary goals of the PPWR include reducing packaging waste, promoting circular economy principles, limiting harmful substances, increasing recyclability and recycled content, and introducing compostability requirements for specific applications.
For fresh produce, specific impacts include restrictions on certain packaging formats from 2030, compostability requirements for sticky labels on fruit and vegetables, and new labelling requirements to support correct sorting and reuse.
Ultimately, the new rules will gradually change how packaging is designed, used, labelled, and managed across the EU, with implications for fresh produce suppliers.
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