Home News PPWR: New European packaging rules on the way

PPWR: New European packaging rules on the way

The European Union is working on stricter requirements for packaging. The rules are not yet final, but their impact could be significant. We are closely monitoring developments and preparing for possible changes.

What is PPWR?

The Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) replaces the current directives and aims to reduce packaging waste and encourage recycling. The regulation introduces, among other things:

  • Limitation of empty space in packaging with a maximum of 50 per cent.Use of recycled material.
  • Mandatory reuse and refill options for certain product categories.
  • The current directive has the primary goal to minimize the environmental impact of packaging waste.

Why are we sharing this?

We’re sharing this to keep you informed, as this regulation will directly affect your organisation as our business partner and may also have implications for others in our supply chain. By providing early insight into what is coming, we help you prepare for potential impacts such as smaller packaging, adjusted displays and stricter administrative requirements. Through transparency and close collaboration, we can anticipate these changes together and minimise disruption across the entire supply chain.

What is likely to change?

The new rules mean that packaging will likely become smaller and more sustainable. This has consequences for design, costs, logistics and in-store presentation. In addition, mandatory packaging data reporting will be introduced.

Which steps are we taking?

Our project team is closely monitoring developments and preparing scenarios so we can implement the regulation immediately once it’s finalised. We’ll keep you informed and involved every step of the way, so you can plan ahead with confidence.

Our focus is on identifying impact at an early stage and developing practical solutions. This ensures that we are not only ready for the new requirements ourselves, but also that our partners can adapt in time. Collaboration is essential in this.”

Ginsy Ho
Senior purchaser
Winclove Probiotics

What does this mean for the market?

The PPWR will lead to a shift towards more sustainable packaging and circular models. This means:

  • Adjust packaging designs to meet the new requirements by allowing empty space where needed, even when this affects the design to fit the updated packaging size or material. 
  • Changes in logistics and retail presentation, such as smaller packaging and displays. 
  • Increased collaboration within the supply chain to enable reuse and recycling. 
  • New administrative obligations for packaging data and recycling percentages. 

These changes require a joint approach to ensure a smooth transition and to safeguard continuity in the market. We are in this together so will involve you throughout the entire process.

Questions or more information?

If you have any questions following this article, would like to know what preparations we are currently making, or what this entails for you, please contact Ginsy Ho at g.ho@winclove.nl.

Interesting updates in your mailbox

Subscribe to our newsletter and receive the latest news about Winclove, probiotic-related research & publications, relevant market developments and inspiring articles.

Female employees reading the Winclove Probiotics newsletter

Also interesting

Press release20/07/26

Winclove Probiotics and NIZO Food Research partner for microbial innovation

News29/06/26

Meaningful insights at Vitafoods Europe 2026

News29/05/26

ChangeNOW Summit 2026

A selection of our business partners: