1. Overview: What the PPWR Requires
The PPWR regulates the entire lifecycle of packaging. It intervenes deeply in material engineering aspects. The choice of polymer matrix, compounding, and especially additives will determine in the future whether packaging is marketable at all. Those placing products on the market bear full responsibility (EPR – Extended Producer Responsibility).

2. Substance Bans: PFAS and Heavy Metals
A core element of the regulation is chemical safety.

PFAS Restriction: August 12, 2026, strict, binding limits apply to food contact packaging under Article 5 of the PPWR:

• 25 ppb for individual PFAS substances
• 250 ppb for the sum of measured PFAS
• 50 ppm for total PFAS (including polymeric PFAS)
• Heavy Metals: Lead, cadmium, mercury, and chromium (VI) are strictly limited.

The Granula® Solution: We do not just produce completely PFAS-free masterbatches and compounds; we provide proof. Unlike many market participants, we offer measured values and certificates of analysis upon request. This allows you to demonstrate that no fluorinated processing aids or additives have entered your supply chain, rendering your documentation fully audit-proof.

3. Design for Recycling & NIR Detectability
Packaging must be designed to be sortable and recyclable to a high quality.

• The Problem: Conventional Carbon Black pigments absorb infrared light. Consequently, black packaging is often not recognized in sorting plants and ends up in incineration instead of the recycling stream.
• The Solution: Granula® offers NIR-detectable colors and masterbatches. These dark pigmentations are recognized by NIR (Near Infrared) scanners, correctly sorted, and thus meet the PPWR's Design for Recycling criteria.

4. Recyclate Usage: Process Security with PCR
The PPWR mandates increasing quotas for the use of Post-Consumer Recyclates (PCR) (e.g., 35% for various packaging types starting in 2030). However, PCR material often fluctuates in viscosity (MFI), color, and odor.

Our Support for Processors: We develop masterbatches specifically tailored to PCR matrices.

• Dispersion Optimization: For homogeneous distribution within the recyclate.
• Colour Correction: Compensation for yellowing or greying of the recyclate.
• Process Stabilizers: To keep the melt flow index constant and ensure efficient production.

5. Timeline: Key Deadlines

• February 11, 2025: Entry into force of the regulation.
• August 12, 2026: Full application of substance restrictions (PFAS) and design requirements.
• January 1, 2030: Binding minimum recyclate quotas take effect (e.g., 30–35%).
• From 2040: Increase of recyclate quotas up to 65% (e.g., for single-use bottles).

6. Compliance & Documentation
Distributors must maintain gapless documentation to avoid fines or sales bans. Granula® provides the necessary components for your Declaration of Conformity:

• Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)
• confirmed proof of PFAS-free formulations
• Technical specifications regarding recyclability

7. FAQ about PPWR and Masterbatches
Answers to the most common implementation questions.

When do the PPWR PFAS limits apply? The restrictions come into full force on August 12, 2026. From this date, strict limits apply, especially for food packaging (e.g., 25 ppb for individual PFAS). Manufacturers must ensure their masterbatches and additives do not exceed these limits. Granula® already offers fully PFAS-free formulations today.

Can I still use black plastics (Carbon Black)? Conventional Carbon Black absorbs infrared light, making packaging often invisible to sorting plants. According to the PPWR's "Design for Recycling" guidelines, packaging must be sortable. The solution is NIR-detectable colorants recognized by sorting systems. We recommend switching to NIR-capable masterbatches to guarantee recyclability.

How high must the recyclate content (PCR) be in packaging? From January 1, 2030, binding minimum quotas for Post-Consumer Recyclate (PCR) content apply. These vary by packaging type: 30% for single-use plastic bottles and contact-sensitive plastics (like PET), and 35% for other plastic packaging. These quotas will rise further from 2040 (up to 65%).

Who is liable for PPWR violations? The primary responsibility lies with the entity "placing the packaging on the market." This can be brand owners, fillers, or importers. They must prove through declarations of conformity that all components—including the masterbatches and additives used—comply with the regulations. Missing documentation or violations can lead to fines and sales bans.

What impact does high PCR content have on production? A high proportion of PCR material can lead to fluctuations in melt flow index (MFI), viscosity, and coloration (yellowing/greying). Special masterbatches from Granula® can compensate for these effects, ensuring process stability in injection molding or extrusion and restoring the optical quality of the final product.

Are there exemptions from the PPWR? Yes, exceptions exist for certain areas, such as primary pharmaceutical packaging or medical device packaging, where patient safety takes precedence over recycling requirements. However, it is advisable to switch to pollutant-free (PFAS-free) solutions early in these sectors as well.