The use of secondary materials in food packaging is a central element in the implementation of a circular economy for packaging. The utilization rates of secondary materials required in other European countries make the use of recycled plastics necessary in the food sector as well. However, this is associated with uncertainties regarding the quality of the secondary polymers and the migration behavior of contaminants.
With the new Regulation 2022/1616, new recycling processes can be approved by the EFSA as "novel technology." European stakeholders have already taken advantage of this opportunity. The use of recycled polystyrene (rPS) behind a functional barrier (known as ABA construction) in food contact materials is now permitted as "novel technology" in the EU. In Switzerland, materials originating from processes with "novel technology" approval may be used since February 1, 2024. As part of the revision of food law, this has also enabled a closed loop in Switzerland.
Greiner Packaging AG is a major player in the field of PS packaging in Switzerland. Thanks to the newly approved technology, Greiner Packaging AG now wants to test and implement the use of PS recyclate behind a functional barrier, provided that all the necessary conditions are met. Various clarifications regarding the regulatory framework, the market situation for secondary polystyrene, and practical implementation are still necessary before it can be used. realcycle GmbH is supporting Greiner Packaging AG in this project and is taking on project management to enable timely implementation.