EU Adopts Regulation (EU) 2025/351 on Food Contact Plastics

The European Commission published Regulation (EU) 2025/351, introducing significant amendments to existing rules governing plastic materials in contact with food. This Regulation amends Regulation (EU) No 10/2011 by revising key definitions and introducing new provisions for plastic materials intended for food contact. Notable changes include updated definitions for “additive,” “reprocessing of plastic,” and “UVCB substance,” along with the introduction of a “high degree of purity” criterion for substances. The amendments also clarify the use of substances listed in the Union list, set stricter conditions for non-intentionally added substances, and specify permissible deviations for polymer production aids, colorants, and solvents under national law. Enhanced labelling and documentation requirements are established to ensure that manufacturers provide detailed information regarding the composition and potential changes in plastic food contact articles.

Additionally, the Regulation amends Regulation (EU) 2022/1616 on recycled plastics and adjusts Regulation (EC) No 2023/2006 on good manufacturing practice. It sets forth detailed requirements for the incorporation of reprocessed plastics, including migration limits and conditions under which these materials can be used. Transitional measures permit products placed on the market before September 16, 2026, to remain compliant under the previous rules, while items first marketed after December 16, 2025, that do not meet the new criteria must be clearly identified. This Regulation shall enter into force on the twentieth day following its publication, with an effective date of March 16, 2025.