On April 2, 2025, the World Trade Organization (WTO) circulated a notification regarding Italy's proposal for a technical regulation under Legislative Decree 8 November 2021, n. 196. This regulation addresses the reusability requirements of plastic products intended to come into contact with food, in accordance with Annex, Part B of the decree. The proposed regulation aligns with Directive (EU) 2019/904 on the reduction of certain plastic products' environmental impact (Single-Use Plastics - SUP Directive). The goal of the regulation is to define technical characteristics to ensure the reusability of specific plastic products listed in Annex, Part B, which will be subject to a market ban if they do not meet the reusability standards. The regulation aims to prevent the marketing of products labeled as reusable but used as single-use by consumers. Final Date for Comment is 60 days from the notification (i.e. 1 June 2025)
Article 1: Provisions on Reusable Plastic Products in Contact with Food:
Plates, cutlery, straws, and beverage stirrers are considered reusable and marketable as such if they meet the following criteria:
a) Plates:
-Diameter less than 19 cm and weight > 45 grams
-Diameter between 19 and 24 cm and weight > 80 grams
-Diameter > 24 cm and weight > 110 grams
b) Plastic cutlery: (forks, knives, spoons, chopsticks): Weight/length ratio > 0.5 grams per cm
c) Plastic straws: Weight/length ratio > 0.5 grams per cm (except when subject to Directive 90/385/EEC or Directive 93/42/EEC)
d) Beverage stirrers: Weight/length ratio > 0.5 grams per cm
The regulation will apply from the 180th day following its entry into force.
Source:
News Region:
European Union
News Market:
Italy