Introduction
Regulation (EU) 2022/1616 is a significant step by the European Union to regulate the use of recycled plastics in food contact materials. For the flexible packaging industry, this regulation brings clear requirements and challenges that manufacturers, recyclers, and food companies must consider.
Background of the Regulation
The regulation was introduced to ensure that recycled plastics coming into direct contact with food are safe and compliant. It replaces the earlier Regulation (EC) No. 282/2008 and contains updated requirements relating to recycling technologies, decontamination processes, and traceability in the supply chain.
Essential Requirements for Recycling Processes
A central element of the regulation is the authorization of recycling processes at EU level. This means that only recycled plastics for food packaging may be used that originate from EU-approved processes. These processes must be evaluated and approved by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) to ensure they meet the required decontamination standards.
Requirements for the Flexible Packaging Industry
For manufacturers of flexible packaging, this means they may only source recycled plastic from registered and compliant recycling sources. Each manufacturer must provide a Declaration of Compliance confirming compliance with the regulation. This declaration must be passed along the entire supply chain to ensure transparency and traceability.
Decontamination and Quality Control
Another important aspect is decontamination. Recycling processes must demonstrate that they reduce contaminants to a safe level. This requires documented quality controls that ensure the recycled plastic meets food law requirements.
Conclusion and Outlook
Regulation (EU) 2022/1616 ensures that flexible packaging containing recycled plastic meets uniform safety standards throughout the EU. For the industry, this means on the one hand more regulatory effort, but on the other hand also the opportunity to bring sustainable and safe packaging solutions to market that meet the demands of consumers and legislation.
