Is your food brand ready for the August 2026 deadline? Use this 5-point checklist to ensure your packaging clears EU customs and stays on the shelf.
[ ] 1. Switch to Mono-Materials (Recyclability Grade A/B)
Traditional multi-layer bags (like PET/AL/PE) will face high taxes or market bans because they cannot be recycled.
- Action: Change your snack, coffee, and dry food bags to High-Barrier Mono-PE or Mono-PP.
- Goal: Achieve a Recyclability Grade of A or B to lower your EPR fees.
[ ] 2. Ensure 100% PFAS-Free (Chemical Safety)
The EU is banning all “Forever Chemicals” (PFAS) used in food packaging linings for oil and moisture resistance.
- Action: Ask your manufacturer for verified PFAS-Free Lab Reports (SGS or TUV).
- Goal: Protect your high-fat snacks, roasted beans, and powders with safe, non-toxic coatings.
[ ] 3. Get Your Declaration of Conformity (DoC)
Without this “legal passport,” your packaging cannot be sold in the EU after August 2026.
- Action: Compile a DoC for every unique product SKU. It must show material structure, chemical safety, and recyclability scores.
- Goal: Zero delays at the Port of Rotterdam or Hamburg.
[ ] 4. Use FSC-Certified Paper for Sourcing
For paper-based boxes, outer cartons, or paper-lined bags, the fiber must be traceable and sustainable.
- Action: Ensure all paper components are FSC-Certified from responsibly managed forests.
- Goal: Meet both PPWR and EUDR (Deforestation) requirements in one step.
[ ] 5. Test Your Filling Lines & Shelf Life
New materials run differently on machines. Don’t wait until the deadline to find out your bags don’t seal.
- Action: Run Heat-Seal Strength Tests on your automatic lines and check the Shelf Life (OTR/MVTR) for your specific food product.
- Goal: Zero production downtime and 100% freshness for your customers.
Cailyn: Your Partner in 2026 Compliance
We help food brands navigate the new EU rules with professional materials and technical data.