Consumer chip quality tests and new EU packaging regulations

A recent investigation by Stiftung Warentest into potato chips reveals that expensive brand-name products do not always guarantee higher quality. Out of 25 products tested, including brands such as Pringles, Kettle, and Rob’s, five received a grade of ‘mangelhaft’ (insufficient). In contrast, budget private-label brands from retailers like Aldi, Lidl, and Rewe generally received ‘gut’ (good) or ‘befriedigend’ (satisfactory) ratings.

The testing also highlighted issues with packaging, noting that some bags contained up to 95 percent air. Additionally, traditional chip bags were found to be more recyclable than rigid chip canisters.

In a separate regulatory development, new European Union packaging regulations have begun to take effect. Aimed at reducing waste and emissions, these rules mandate that packaging must be sized appropriately for protection, transport, and storage, which may result in smaller bag sizes with less excess air. The regulation also promotes the use of recyclable materials, discourages problematic substances like PFAS, and introduces standardized symbols to simplify household recycling processes.