PFAS concentration limits for food-contact packaging under PPWR
The Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) introduces specific PFAS concentration limits for food-contact packaging placed on the European market. From 12 August 2026, businesses using packaging for food applications need to ensure that their packaging meets these new requirements. For VARIBOX EPDM Food, that assessment has already been carried out. Based on laboratory testing, supplier documentation and risk evaluations, the complete packaging configuration has been assessed for PFAS providing customers with clarity as they prepare for the PPWR requirements.
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PFAS compliance for VARIBOX EPDM Food
The Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) introduces new requirements for packaging placed on the European market. For food-contact packaging, one important change concerns the presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).
From 12 August 2026, food-contact packaging placed on the EU market must comply with the PFAS concentration limits established by the PPWR. For companies using IBCs for food applications, this raises an important question:
Does the complete packaging comply with the new PFAS requirements?
For VARIBOX EPDM Food versions, Rotovia has assessed exactly that. Based on laboratory testing, supplier documentation and risk evaluations, the components of the VARIBOX have been assessed for PFAS.
The assessment confirms that the VARIBOX EPDM Food versions comply with the PFAS concentration limits of the PPWR.
PPWR looks at the packaging as a whole
For an IBC, focusing only on parts that come into direct contact with food does not provide the complete picture under the PPWR PFAS requirements.
Direct food-contact components
This includes components involved in containing or dispensing the filling product.
The complete packaging
Other components providing protection, stability, handling functionality or structural support also form part of the VARIBOX packaging.
The PFAS assessment therefore covers the components that make up the complete VARIBOX EPDM Food configuration, not only a limited selection of food-contact parts.
How have we assessed PFAS in the VARIBOX?
Determining whether a complete packaging solution meets the PPWR requirements requires more than looking at a single material specification.
The assessment combines
- Laboratory testing
- Supplier documentation
- Risk evaluations
Depending on the component and associated risk, these sources are used to evaluate the materials and components throughout the VARIBOX and determine whether the complete packaging meets the applicable PFAS concentration limits.
A reusable IBC is a complete packaging solution made up of different components, each with its own function and material composition. That is why the assessment considers those individual components as part of one complete system.
More than direct food-contact components
Material safety has always been important for food applications. PPWR adds another regulatory dimension by setting specific PFAS concentration limits for food-contact packaging.
We look at the VARIBOX as the packaging that is placed on the market.
For customers, this means the compliance statement is based on an evaluation of the components that together make up the VARIBOX EPDM Food packaging.
The result: VARIBOX EPDM Food versions meet the PFAS concentration limits set by the PPWR.
What does this mean for VARIBOX EPDM Food users?
If you use VARIBOX for food applications, the new PPWR requirements may form part of your regulatory preparations for 2026 and beyond.
Assessment completed
Rotovia has carried out the assessment to establish compliance of the covered VARIBOX EPDM Food versions with the PPWR PFAS concentration limits.
Clearer preparation
The assessment gives food-industry customers clarity when reviewing the packaging they use in preparation for the PPWR requirements taking effect.
Compliance confirmed in the Declaration of Compliance
Technical assessments and supporting documentation establish compliance. Customers also need that information translated into clear documentation for the packaging they purchase and use.
VARIBOX Declaration of Compliance
- A Declaration of Compliance (DoC) is available for VARIBOX EPDM Food versions.
- It provides the relevant compliance statement for the covered packaging.
- It confirms compliance with the PFAS concentration limits established by the PPWR, among other applicable requirements.
The underlying assessment is supported by laboratory tests, supplier documentation and risk evaluations. This allows Rotovia to provide compliance documentation for the VARIBOX itself rather than requiring customers to evaluate documentation for every individual component.
Prepared for 12 August 2026
The PFAS requirements for food-contact packaging apply from 12 August 2026. Businesses using packaging for food applications therefore need to understand whether the packaging solutions in their supply chain meet the new requirements.
For VARIBOX EPDM Food users, that work has been done
Rotovia has assessed the complete VARIBOX EPDM Food configuration, looking beyond only direct food-contact parts and considering the components that together form the packaging.
VARIBOX EPDM Food versions meet the PFAS concentration limits of the PPWR, and this compliance is confirmed in the VARIBOX Declaration of Compliance.
Need more information about VARIBOX and PPWR?
PFAS is one of the areas businesses need to consider as PPWR introduces significant changes for packaging placed on the European market.
If you use VARIBOX EPDM Food and need information about PFAS compliance, the applicable VARIBOX configuration or the corresponding Declaration of Compliance, please contact our team.
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