Stricter rules in the EU as of today: Change affects the food we often buy

Starting today, stricter rules take effect in the European Union regarding food packaging, particularly concerning materials that contain harmful substances such as PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). From Wednesday, August 12, food packaging used for items like burger boxes or fried food containers will no longer be allowed to include certain types of grease-resistant coatings or paper that contain these potentially dangerous chemicals. The new regulations, part of the EU’s broader packaging directive, aim to reduce environmental harm and protect public health. The updated EU regulation on packaging introduces strict limits on the use of PFAS in food contact materials. These substances, which have been widely used due to their water- and oil-repellent properties, are suspected of being harmful to human health. Existing stockpiled packaging can still be used, according to reports from local media. In addition to banning PFAS, the new rules also introduce long-term changes, though many of them will not become immediately visible to consumers until 2030. Future packaging must be recyclable and as small as possible. Certain single-use plastic packaging for fresh fruits and vegetables will also be prohibited. Further restrictions apply to very light plastic bags, which will be banned unless they serve hygiene purposes or help prevent food waste. This move reflects growing concerns over plastic pollution and its impact on both the environment and public health. According to data from Eurostat, the EU generated 177.8 kilograms of packaging waste per person in 2023. The new rules aim to ensure a reduction of at least 15 percent in packaging waste by 2040 compared to 2018, with intermediate targets of a 5 percent decrease by 2030 and a 10 percent cut by 2035. Meanwhile, in Croatia, a political figure has raised alarm over potential illegal waste dumping near the village of Udbina. Saborski zastupnik Mosta Marin Miletić has requested urgent action from Minister of Internal Affairs Davor Božinović following reports of suspected illegal waste disposal on state-owned land. Miletić claims that the waste could threaten the surrounding environment, groundwater, and public health. He has submitted photographs and location details obtained from citizens to the police, asking for an investigation into the type, quantity, and origin of the waste, including the presence of hazardous substances like PFAS. Miletić argues that this issue is not isolated and should be examined within the context of previously uncovered cases of illegal waste dumping in areas such as Lik and others across Croatia. He cited examples from locations like Silos and Rakitovac in Gospić, as well as Benkovac, which he believes are connected. Additionally, he included Lički Osik and Štikadu in a broader pattern of suspicion regarding improper waste management. “This is no longer an isolated local incident,” Miletić stated. “The situation in Lika represents a serious threat to underground waters, soil, public health, and national security, with potential consequences for the area of Lik, Gacka, and the Northern Coast.” He has called for the involvement of several authorities, including the State Inspectorate, Environmental Protection Inspection, the relevant state prosecutor's office, civil protection agencies, and local and regional self-governments. Given that the land in question belongs to the Republic of Croatia, Miletić emphasized the need to determine how the waste arrived there and who is responsible for overseeing and protecting state property. His request underscores ongoing concerns about illegal waste practices and their far-reaching implications for environmental and public safety.