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 EFSA as a "novel technology." This possibility has already been used by European stakeholders. As a "novel technology," the use of recycled polystyrene (rPS) behind a functional barrier (so-called ABA structure) in food contact materials is now permitted in the EU. In Switzerland, material originating from processes with "novel technology" approval has been permitted since February 1, 2024. As part of the revision of food law, a circular flow has thus also been made possible in Switzerland.
An important player in the field of PS packaging in Switzerland is Greiner Packaging AG. Due to the newly approved technology, Greiner Packaging AG would now like to test or implement the use of recycled PS behind a functional barrier, provided that all the general conditions allow it. For the application, various clarifications regarding the regulatory framework, the market situation of secondary polystyrene and the practical implementation are still necessary. realcycle GmbH supports Greiner Packaging AG in this project and takes over the project management to enable timely implementation.