European Union implements new plastic packaging regulations

The European Union is introducing new regulations for beverage producers to reduce plastic waste and environmental impact. Following the 2024 mandate requiring plastic caps and lids to remain attached to beverage containers up to 3 liters, new requirements are now taking effect regarding the composition of packaging materials.

Starting in 2025, PET beverage bottles must contain at least 25 percent recycled plastic (rPET) on average across a member state's market. This shift in material usage may result in visible changes to product appearance. Because of the recycling process, rPET can cause bottles to exhibit different colors, such as slight graying or yellowing, or a change in transparency compared to bottles made from entirely new plastic.