EU plastic regulations change appearance of beverage bottles

New European Union regulations regarding Single-Use Plastics are changing the appearance of beverage packaging on store shelves. To increase the use of recycled plastic (rPET), manufacturers must meet rising thresholds for recycled content in PET bottles. Current regulations require at least 25 percent recycled material, a figure set to rise to at least 30 percent by 2030.

This shift in material composition will result in visible changes to bottle aesthetics. Unlike virgin plastic, recycled material can appear more matte, milky, or slightly grey or yellowish due to microscopic residues from dyes and adhesives. Experts and regulators, including the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), emphasize that these visual changes do not affect the quality, taste, or safety of the beverages, as all food-grade recycled plastics must undergo rigorous testing to meet sanitary standards.