What changed for packaging on 12 August 2026?

Which parts of the EU packaging regulation apply now, which start in 2028 and 2030, and what a small maker actually needs to do about it.

Checked against the national sources on 2026-08-04.

What changed on 12 August 2026 for packaging?

The EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation started applying. For a small maker the practical changes are the PFAS restriction on food-contact packaging, which has no sell-through period for existing stock, and registration in national packaging registers being enforced more visibly. Most of the design rules people have read about start in 2030.

Do the empty-space and recyclability rules apply now?

No. The 50 percent limit on empty space in e-commerce parcels, recyclable-by-design requirements, weight and volume minimisation and recycled content all start in 2030. The harmonised sorting label on shipping boxes is expected in August 2028.

Is there a grace period for the new packaging rules?

Authorities have been told to warn and support before penalising, with a reasonable deadline to correct, and packaging produced before 12 August 2026 does not have to be destroyed or relabelled. The exception is PFAS in food-contact packaging, which has no sell-through period, and none of it excuses registration.

This is a summary, not legal advice. If you are unsure about your situation, check with your national scheme or an advisor.