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Chip & snack packaging
You are faced with an important choice. The packaging for your fries and snacks must not only look good and be practical, but most importantly, it must be completely safe and compliant. It’s a complex landscape in which you can quickly lose your way. You may think that “food safe” is enough, or that sustainability should be the sole focus. Yet there is a world behind the scenes, full of strict regulations, technical requirements and hidden risks that can determine the success of your business. Let’s dive deeper together into what really matters, so you can make the best decision with confidence.
Your packaging and the legal ground rules in the EU
When you choose food contact packaging, you enter a world of regulations and compliance for food contact materials inside. In the European Union, this is strictly regulated to protect public health. Consider the general Framework Regulation EC 1935/2004 and the specific Regulation EU 10/2011 for plastics. These rules go far beyond just a general claim of “food safety.” They determine exactly which substances are and are not allowed in packaging, and in what quantities they are allowed to migrate into your food.
The future of your packaging
The world of food packaging never stands still, especially when it comes to regulations. Important changes are coming that will directly affect your choices and how you choose the right material for your food packaging.
- Bisphenol A (BPA) ban
From January 2025, bisphenol A and its derivatives will be completely banned in food contact materials in the EU. This is a major step that further increases safety. - PFAS restrictions
EU Regulation 2025/40 (PPWR) introduces strict restrictions on PFAS substances in food contact packaging. These “forever chemicals” are increasingly being phased out, with, for example, a limit of 25 ppb for individual PFAS substances. - Recycled content and recyclability
By 2030, all plastic packaging must meet minimum recycled material requirements. In addition, all packaging must be economically recyclable. This involves a focus on the entire life cycle and criteria for recyclability of packaging materials.. - Further restrictions on substances of concern (SoC)
The European Commission is working on new regulations to limit additional substances of concern, which are expected to take effect from Jan. 1, 2028.
As a partner in packaging, we are happy to help you be prepared for these changes. You can’t just wait and see; you need to take the right steps now to stay compliant in the future.
BRC certification
You may have heard the term BRCGS Packaging Materials certification. This is not just any label; it is the global standard for safety and quality in the packaging industry. Why is this so important? Because it gives you and your customers assurance.
- Market access and trust
More than 70% of the top 10 global retailers require this certification from their packaging suppliers. It opens doors and builds a strong foundation of trust. - Food safety and risk reduction
Certification ensures strict processes that ensure food safety and minimize the risks of contamination or product failure. - Operational efficiency
It helps streamline your processes, leading to less waste and higher efficiency.
For you as a buyer, it is crucial that your supplier has this certification. It is a sign that they are serious about the responsibility associated with food contact materials. We understand that you are wondering how to choose the right supplier. To find out, take a look at essential certifications and standards for sustainable packaging.
The science behind safe packaging
Packaging should not release harmful substances into food. This sounds logical, but how exactly is this tested? It is done through migration testing. This is a legal requirement and a crucial part of ensuring food safety.
In migration testing, we look at two types of migration:
- Total migration
This involves measuring how much of all non-volatile substances migrate from the packaging to the food (or a food simulant). This gives a general idea of the inertness of the material. - Specific migration
Here we focus on the migration of specific potentially harmful substances, such as monomers or additives, which can already pose risks in very small amounts.
These tests are conducted under conditions that mimic reality, including temperature and duration. The results must fall within strict legal limits. Understanding these tests helps you make informed choices and Prevent risks and choose certainty with food safety in packaging.
Food safety and sustainability
As a family business, we understand that you have to find a balance between food safety and sustainability. You naturally want to contribute to a better world, but never at the expense of the safety of your products. Competitors often focus purely on ‘green’, but forget the complexity of compliance. We help you make smart choices, for example by focusing on circular solutions such as rPET for your fry and snack packaging, which are both sustainable and fully compliant.
Our thermoforming process allows us to work accurately and efficiently so that you receive packaging that meets all your expectations. Whether you are looking for standard solutions or customized packaging need, we are here for you with advice that goes beyond product sales.
Choose security and a reliable partner
Choosing the right packaging for your fries and snacks is a strategic decision. It’s about more than just functionality and appearance; it’s about ensuring safety, compliance and protecting your brand. At MultiTray, we are passionate about helping you do just that. We combine our expertise and dedication as a family-owned company with the latest insights into regulations and sustainability.
Are you ready to take your packaging compliance to the next level and stand out in the marketplace? Request a request a free quote or contact us for a personal interview. We are happy to work with you on a solution that fits your unique needs.