New EU regulations for food and beverage packaging

The European Union is implementing new regulations to reduce waste in the catering sector by transitioning toward reusable packaging. Starting next month, a ban on packaging containing harmful chemicals will take effect. Vasilis Leventis, Secretary General of the Association of Leisure Center Owners, expressed dissatisfaction regarding the lack of official state communication about these changes, noting that businesses are currently relying on media reports for information. Haralampos Theopemptou, former Chairman of the Environment Committee, clarified that the timeline includes mandatory acceptance of customer-provided reusable cups by February 2027. Additionally, by February 2028, businesses will be required to offer their own reusable packaging options for takeaway food and drink. While industry representatives recognize the environmental benefits, they are demanding better coordination and transparency from the government. Officials expect these measures to be implemented without significant price increases for consumers.