Current Status of Sustainable Food Packaging Regulations: Global Perspective

Abstract

This review offers a global overview of the status of laws governing sustainable food packaging materials. The review highlights the regulatory framework for several sustainable packaging options, including paper-based packaging, compostable materials, and biodegradable plastics. The review focuses on the European, Indian, South Korean, Japanese, Chinese, Australian, British, and American regulations. Generally, the trend towards sustainable food packaging legislation is anticipated to continue, with more nations and regions putting policies into place to cut waste and encourage a circular economy. This will probably spur the development of new environmentally friendly packaging materials and motivate companies to use greener methods.

1. Introduction

Packaging materials are part of our daily life. Regarding foodstuffs, it is crucial to ensure that food products are adequately preserved with optimized space for handling, shipping, and storage to reduce waste. Customers frequently perceive packaging as a way to communicate messages to them and provide them with information and instructions. As sustainability becomes a primary issue, the food industry should invest in various sectors, including food packaging. When selecting food packaging materials, care should be given to utilize those that do not impair human health, do not generate landfill waste, can be recycled or reused, and do not emit greenhouse gases [1,2,3]. The material used to package food must withstand moisture gain and loss, microbial contamination, and the permeability of gases [4,5,6]. Various non-governmental organizations have different definitions of sustainable packaging, as shown in

Table 1. Different definitions of sustainable packaging by different organizations.

Definition of Sustainable Packaging	References
The term “sustainable packaging” refers to the use of materials and design principles that reduce the environmental impact of a product’s manufacturing, use, and disposal while still satisfying functional and financial needs.	Sustainable Packaging Coalition (SPC) [7,8,9]
Packaging should be effective, cyclical, and safe and contribute economic and social value. It should utilize as little energy and materials as possible, maximize material recovery, and not endanger users or ecosystems.	The Australian Sustainable Packaging Alliance [8]
The design of the packaging should be comprehensive, it should be made of materials that have been obtained ethically, it should be efficient and safe during its entire life, it should be affordable, it should fulfil customer expectations and demands, and it should be recyclable or recoverable after use.	EUROPEN [8,10]

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1.1. Types of Sustainable Food Packaging

There are several choices for today’s efforts to produce food packaging that is more environmentally friendly. Packaging made of biodegradable materials gradually deteriorates and reintegrates into the environment due to microbial activity [11]. The material and processes have an impact on the decomposition rate. On the other hand, compostable packaging undergoes biological processes during composting, producing CO₂, water, inorganic compounds, and biomass. It decomposes at a rate comparable to other compostable materials. Compostable means that materials do not leave any hazardous residue behind [12].

Contrary to compostable products, certain biodegradable materials might take years to decompose, and some even produce harmful waste (microplastics) [13]. Recyclable packaging can be altered and reused after processing, including materials like paper, glass, metals, and certain plastics [14]. Zero-waste packaging is a strategy that emphasizes refusal, reduction, reuse, and recycling. To reduce waste produced by food packaging, package-free options and the usage of reusable containers are promoted [15].

1.2. Various Types of Sustainable Food Packaging Materials

Various types of sustainable food packaging materials include paper and cardboard, glass, metal, plastic, biopolymers, antimicrobial polymers, corn starch and popcorn, and packaging made from mushrooms and waste avocado seeds [11].

• Paper and cardboard: Recyclable, biodegradable, cost-effective, and excellent printability [16].
• Glass: Recyclable, reusable, and provides excellent barrier qualities but can break under pressure [16].
• Metal: Heat-resistant, robust, highly recyclable, and offers physical protection for food products [16].
• Plastic: Provides superior barrier qualities, contamination resistance, and longer shelf life. Some plastics are recyclable [11].
• Biopolymers: Eco-friendly alternatives to non-biodegradable plastics derived from biomass or microbial fermentation [17,18].
• Antimicrobial polymers: Incorporating bioactive agents into packaging to inhibit bacterial or fungal growth. Examples include polyhydroxybutyrate, poly (lactic acid), and starch derivatives [19,20,21].
• Corn starch and popcorn [11]: Natural and biodegradable alternatives to plastic packaging made from corn and maize plants.
• Mushroom and waste avocado seeds: Packaging materials that can be composted to enhance sustainability. Avocado seeds that have been wasted can also be made into a substitute for plastic [11].

1.3. Different Approaches towards Sustainable Food Packaging Materials

1.3.1. Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)

EPR is “an environmental policy approach in which a producer’s responsibility for a product is extended to the post-consumer stage of a product’s life cycle”. EPR is one of the primary instruments of waste management policy that encourages the implementation of the European waste hierarchy. It has played a significant role in EU policy, helping to facilitate the collection and recycling of plastic waste streams [22].

The term “Extended Producer Responsibility” refers to several significant obligations for producers. They are responsible for minimizing the environmental impact of the items they create by considering things like materials, recyclability, energy efficiency, and the minimization of dangerous compounds. In order to collect and recycle their products after they are thrown away, producers must set up systems. These systems may involve establishing collection stations, collaborating with recycling facilities, or setting up take-back initiatives. Producers are frequently obliged to pay fees or set up financial mechanisms in order to finance or contribute to the costs related to the collection, transportation, and recycling of their products. Producers must submit reports on their environmental performance, including product counts and collection and recycling rates, and abide by EPR rules as observed by regulatory bodies.

EPR policies and initiatives are well established for various products in Europe, India, Canada, Japan, and South Korea. If appropriately implemented, EPR programs can offer a variety of advantages and opportunities, such as higher recycling and collection rates, lower public spending on waste management, lower overall waste management costs, and design for environmental innovations, such as increasing product durability and reusability [23].

1.3.2. Concept of Circular Economy

In recent years, increasing attention has been paid to integrating and coordinating policies to advance the circular economy, which aims to lessen the harmful environmental effects of packaging for commodities. According to the World Economic Forum, a circular economy is an industrial system that is restorative or regenerative by intention and design [24,25]. A closed-loop system that utilizes both biological and technological inputs separately is the foundation of the circular economy business model. It is a regenerative system that lessens resource input, waste, emissions, and energy leakage by slowing down, closing down, and shrinking material and energy loops [26]. The circular economy reduces waste, because it increases the value of already-existing commodities and prevents the overuse of natural resources [27]. It enhances the value of existing resources, prevents overuse of natural resources, and reduces waste and greenhouse gas emissions. With the introduction of the “Closed Substance Cycle and Waste Management Act”, Germany was a pioneer in integrating the circular economy into national laws. The “Circular Economy Promotion Law of the People’s Republic of China” and “Basic Law for Establishing a Recycling-Based Society” from China and Japan, respectively, followed this [28]. The EU’s Circular Economy Strategy has also embraced concerns about the circular economy.

The European Union, through its Circular Economic Action Plan as part of the European Green Deal, has set ambitious objectives and committed significant investment to drive the circular economy. Major private sector players in the United States, including Google, Amazon, HP, Coca-Cola, and Caterpillar, have also initiated efforts to support the circular economy. The US Chamber of Commerce Foundation estimates that a move to a circular economy by 2025 may prevent 100 million tons of waste [27]. Korea has implemented important policies such as waste treatment fees, restrictions on one-way packaging, and extended producer responsibility. Australia and New Zealand are currently evaluating and advancing their circular economy action agenda. As the concept of the circular economy is still relatively new, further development is needed to understand its implications on population carrying capacity, employment, international trade, and the role of institutions [25,29].

2. Importance of Sustainable Food Packaging Regulations

Food packaging has a significant environmental impact due to its contribution to solid waste and limited recycling options [10]. Single-use design and the characteristics of materials like plastic pose challenges for end-of-life management. Annually, the packaging sector generates around 150 million tons of plastic, with over 95% of this discarded within the same year. This contributes to global concerns such as marine litter, soil contamination, waterway blockages, flooding, and the spread of waterborne diseases, particularly affecting developing countries [30]. Each year, the EU wastes up to 100 million tons of food. This negatively impacts the environment in a substantial way. Additionally, incorrect or misinterpreted food date labeling accounts for 20% of the wasteful waste of food that is still edible.

Packaging has been identified as one of the key elements in addressing sustainable food consumption. According to the Environmental Conservation declination, food packaging is sustainable if it addresses at least one of the following six goals without undermining others: resource effectiveness, resource recycling, responsible packaging for end-of-life management, responsible food purchasing, responsible food preservation at home, and responsible supply chain management. One strategy being studied right now to lessen the environmental impact of food packaging is recycling. For recycling to be successful, collection and sorting procedures must be effective [31]. Increased recycling would also reduce the amount of plastic waste in the environment. This review aims to provide a global perspective on the current status of sustainable food packaging regulations and critical regions, including the United States, the European Union, India, China, Japan, South Korea, Australia, and the United Kingdom. By examining the existing regulations and initiatives in these regions, the review intends to shed light on best practices and opportunities to pursue more sustainable food packaging practices worldwide.

3. Regulations on Sustainable Food Packaging Materials—Global Perspective

The degree of regulatory maturity varies significantly among nations. Several countries currently have regulations that promote more environmentally sustainable package choices while blending with local and national cultures, as shown in Figure 1.

The majority of laws in the nations under study also address the following end-to-end issues: package requirements, recyclability, anticipated principal uses of packaging, the packaging chain, including collection and sorting plans, and the setting of reuse or recycling goals [32]. Most nations have started their journey towards sustainability by focusing on the beginning and end of the flow, i.e., restricting specific resources and emphasizing waste management through extended producer responsibility (EPR). Sustainable packaging laws have prioritized plastic packaging in recent years [33]. This is primarily due to the following reasons: (a) most food packaging requires sufficient barriers that compostable and biodegradable polymers cannot provide; (b) composting/biodegradation systems are frequently not economically viable; and (c) there is a lack of economic value of the packaging as a result of composting and biodegradation. Regulations on sustainable food packaging materials in different countries are shown in

Table 2. Regulations on sustainable food packaging materials in different countries.

Country	Authority	Regulations	References
European Union	The European Parliament and Council	Regulation (EC) No. 1935/2004 and Regulation (EC) No. 2023/2006 on food contact/packaging materials Regulation (EC) 282/2008 on recycled plastic materials for food packaging Directive (EU) 2018/852 amendments of Directive 94/62/EC on packaging and packaging waste EPR EU’s Circular Economy (2020) Directive (EU) 2019/904 on single-use plastics	[33,34,35,36,37,38,39,40,41,42,43]
India	The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)	Food Safety and Standards (Packaging) Amendment Regulations (2022) Plastic Waste Management (Amendment) Rules (2021) EPR under Plastic Waste Management Rules (2022)	[44,45,46,47,48,49]
USA	Food and Drug Administration	Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FDCA) (Title 21) (1938) Guidance for Industry: Use of Recycled Plastics in Food Packaging: Chemistry Considerations (2021)	[50,51,52,53,54,55,56,57,58]
Australia	Food Standards Australia New Zealand	Standard 3.2.2 on Food Safety Practices and General Requirements (1991) National Plastic Plan (2021) National Environment Protection (Used Packaging Materials) Measure (2011) Sustainable Packaging Guidelines (2020)	[59,60,61,62,63,64,65,66]
Japan	Japanese Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare	Food Sanitation Act (1947) Plastic Resource Circulation Act (Act No. 60 of 2021) Containers and Packaging Recycling Act (1995)	[67,68,69,70,71]
UK	Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs	Producer Responsibility Obligations (Packaging Waste) Regulations (2007) The Plastic Packaging Tax (2022) Packaging (Essential Requirements) Regulations (2015) Deposit Return Scheme (2023)	[72,73,74,75]
South Korea	Ministry of Food and Drug Safety	Food Sanitation Act (2011) Standards for Recycling Raw Materials for Food Containers (2021) Resource Recycling Act (2002) Eco-label Certification System (2016)	[76,77,78]
China	National Health Commission (NHC) and Ministry of Health	Directory of Plastic Products Prohibited and Restricted from Production, Sales, and Use (Exposure Draft) (2020) GB/T 20197-2006 Define, Classify, Marking and Degradability Requirement of Degradable Plastics GB/T 27868-2011 Starch-Based Biodegradable Resins GB/T 38082-2019 Biodegradable Plastic Bags GB 4806.6-2016 Resins Used to Make Plastics in Contact with Food	[79,80,81,82]
Canada	Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA)	Ban on single-use plastic items Canadian Standards Association developed standard CAN/BNQ-0017-088 for compostable plastics	[34,35]
New Zealand	Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI)	Waste Minimization Act (2008) Soft Plastic Recycling Program (2015) Guidelines for biodegradable and compostable packagingAS4736, EN13432, and ASTMD6400/6868 are widely utilized international standards in New Zealand Ban on single-use plastic items	[36,37,38]
Brazil	National Health Surveillance Agency, known as Agência Nacional de Vigilância Sanitária	National Solid Waste Policy is governed by Federal Decree No. 10.936/2022 The National Reverse Logistics Program	[39,40]
South Africa	Food Control, Department of Health South Africa	Restrictions on the use of single-use plastics Specifications for plastic product labeling	[41]
Mexico	Federal Commission for the Protection against Sanitary Risks	Single-use plastic bag ban (2021) Specifications for the labeling and promotion of packed foods and non-alcoholic beverages	[42,43]
Chile	Biblioteca del Congreso National de Chile	Framework for Waste Management, extended producer responsibility, and the Promotion of Recycling is established by Law No. 20.920 (2016)	[44]
Costa Rica	Ministry of Health (Ministerio de Salud)	Directive No. 0-14 MINAE to create technical norms that classify single-use plastic items as renewable, biodegradable, and compostable in the marine environment The sale or distribution of plastic bags by supermarkets and other retail enterprises is prohibited by Law No. 9786	[45,46]
Colombia	Colombian Institute of Technical Standards and Certification and the National Food and Drug Surveillance Institute	The National Code on Renewable Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Environmental management of packaging waste made of paper, paperboard, plastic, glass, and metal is governed by Resolution 1407 of 2018 Sensible use of plastic bags is regulated by Resolution 668 of 2016	[47]
Gulf Corporate Council	Possesses no single regulatory body. However, each nation has its own regulating organization, such as the Saudi Food and Drug Authority in Saudi Arabia, the Ministries of Public Health in Qatar, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, and the Saudi Food and Drug Authority	M.A-156-16-03-03 (“Degradable Plastic Products”), which is a three-phase ban on disposable plastic items composed of polypropylene and polyethylene UAE Ministry of Environment and Water has banned plastic packaging and disposable items except for oxo-biodegradable plastic—Standard 5009/2009 Plastic bag ban in Bahrain Qatar and Kuwait have yet to implement a formal ban on single-use plastic items	[48]

. Table 2 presents a comprehensive overview of the diverse regulations on sustainable food packaging materials in different countries, providing valuable insights into their approaches towards environmental conservation. Each country demonstrates its commitment to tackling the issue of packaging sustainability by implementing various measures, including bans on single-use plastic items, regulations on recyclability, and extended producer responsibility (EPR).

3.1. European Union (EU)

There are 27 members of the European Union. The EU food system has been extremely successful in assuring consumer choice and food security. In the EU, various regulatory frameworks and methods regulate food production, processing, distribution, consumption, and the effects of these. Food packaging performs several crucial functions, including safeguarding food from deterioration or contamination and informing consumers about the contents of the package. The EU food system has effectively met its goals of ensuring consumer choice and food security.

The European Parliament and the Council regulate the rules to govern environmentally friendly food packaging in the EU. Member states have agreed to adopt stricter regulations by 2030 [49]. Several product regulations apply to product packaging materials in the EU. This also includes limitations on chemicals and heavy metals, recycling requirements, labeling requirements, and laboratory testing. Businesses that use or produce packaging in quantities greater than a specific threshold are legally required to ensure that a predetermined portion of the packaging is recovered and recycled.

3.1.1. Regulation (EC) No. 1935/2004 and GMP Regulation (EC) No. 2023/2006

Food contact materials are typically governed at the Union level under the EU Framework Regulation (EC) No. 1935/2004 [50]. According to the law, every food packaging/contacting substance must be sufficiently inert to prevent substances from being conveyed in proportions that jeopardize human health. The standards of this regulation, supported by Regulation 2023/2006 on Good Manufacturing Practice (EC 2023/2006), should be met by materials used for packaging to be sold [51].

The framework rule EC 1935/2004 regulates active and intelligent packaging. Intelligent packaging may only release compounds into the food that are regulated as food additives or food flavorings in compliance with the framework law. Additional safety criteria for active and intelligent packaging are outlined in Regulation EC 450/2009 [52]. As a result, a declaration of conformity with consumer information must be included with every product businesses offer employing active and intelligent packaging.

3.1.2. GMP Regulation (EC) No. 2023/2006

This establishes guidelines for Good Manufacturing Practices for products and materials designated for food contact. It strives to ensure that goods, like food contact materials and articles, continually conform, comply, and are manufactured according to high-quality standards [51]. It establishes general guidelines for all business participants in the supply chain and mandates the creation and implementation of quality assurance and control systems. Businesses must provide traceable data. Quality assurance test results, declarations of conformity, and operational records must all be included in the documentation. The business owner must provide the necessary documentation upon request from the competent authorities.

3.1.3. Regulation (EC) No. 282/2008 on Recycled Plastic Materials for Food Packaging

Only products and materials made from recycled plastic obtained through a recycling procedure that was authorized in compliance with this regulation may be commercialized [53]. A suitable quality assurance system that guarantees the recycled plastic conforms to the specifications outlined in the authorization shall be used to manage the authorized recycling process as outlined in Regulation (EC) No. 2023/2006 Annex [54,55]. The plastic input’s quality must be in accordance with Article 3 of Regulation (EC) No. 1935/2004. The procedure’s capacity to reduce any contamination of the plastic input to a concentration that does not endanger human health must be demonstrated through a challenge test or other appropriate scientific evidence. The quality of recycled plastic must be evaluated and controlled appropriately, since the completed recycled plastic material must comply with established standards.

3.1.4. Directive (EU) 2018/852 Amendment on Directive 94/62/EC

The purpose of this directive is to harmonize the management of packaging and packaging waste, to ensure the smooth operation of the internal market, prevent trade barriers, protect the environment and advance the principles of the circular economy, and promote the manufacture of packaging and other products using recycled packaging waste [56]. Directive (EU) 2018/852, the most recent amendment to Directive 94/62/EC [57], offers revised regulations to encourage reuse, recycling, and other forms of recovering packaging waste rather than its final disposal and aid global efforts to transition to a circular economy.

By the end of 2025, at least 65% of all packaging waste must be recycled by weight, and by the end of 2030, at least 70% of all packaging waste must be recycled. The market share of reusable packaging must be increased, and member states must take measures to encourage solutions for environmentally sound package reuse that do not jeopardize consumer or food safety. Examples of such efforts include adopting deposit return programs, setting qualitative or quantitative objectives, using financial incentives, and determining a minimum percentage of reusable packaging introduced to the market each year for each packaging stream. The Commission must review information supplied by member states on reusable packaging by 31 December 2024.

3.1.5. Directive (EU) 2019/904 on Single-Use Plastics

Through the Single-Use Plastics Directive [58], EU officials seek to lessen the quantity and environmental effects of particular plastic items [57]. This directive aims to avoid and reduce the negative impacts of some plastic items on the environment, especially the aquatic environment and human health. It also supports the transition to a circular economy. This directive applies to products made of oxo-degradable plastic, single-use plastic items regulated by regulations, and fishing gear made of plastic.

The member states are in charge of ensuring that each single-use plastic item listed in the directive that is placed in the market has a clear, distinct, and permanent marking on its packaging informing consumers of the proper waste management options for the item and the presence of plastics in the item. By 2029, member states should have recycled 90% of all single-use plastics. Beverage bottles must contain at least 30% recycled plastic by 2030. By 3 July 2027, the Commission is required to evaluate this directive. When this directive conflicts with the Waste Framework Directive or Directive 94/62/EC on packaging and packaging waste, this directive shall take precedence.

3.1.6. EU’s Circular Economy (2020)

The comprehensive body of the EU’s Circular Economy Action Plan (CEAP) was initially adopted in 2015. The EU’s Circular Economy outlines a future-focused agenda for building a more competitive and environmentally friendly Europe in collaboration with economic players, consumers, people, and civil society organizations [59]. To make all plastic packaging recyclable by 2030, the European Strategy for Plastics was adopted in January 2018.

According to CEAP-2020, the focus is on increasing recyclability, packaging reuse, and minimal (over)packing to lessen the variety and complexity of materials and polymers used in packaging. Guidelines were established for securely recycling plastics other than PET into products used in food contact. The implementation of the Drinking Water Directive lessens reliance on bottled water to avoid packaging waste. Based on an evaluation of the applications where such usage can benefit the environment and of the criteria for such applications, the Commission will propose a policy framework for using biodegradable or compostable plastics to address increasing sustainability challenges. Labeling a product as “biodegradable” or “compostable” will dissuade consumers from disposing of a product in a way that results in plastic littering or pollution due to insufficient environmental conditions or a lack of time for degradation.

3.1.7. Extended Producer Responsibility in the EU

Recent legislative developments require member states to enforce extended producer responsibility (EPR) to increase waste prevention and recycling. EPR programs for packaging must be implemented by 2024, with eco-modulation of costs encouraging environmentally friendly packaging design [60]. Measures such as deposit return programs and incentivizing recyclable and reusable packaging are crucial for resource efficiency. Single-use plastic products are also subject to EPR, with manufacturers bearing expenses for awareness campaigns, litter collection, and data reporting. Clear roles and responsibilities for all stakeholders involved in packaging must be defined according to Directive 94/62/EC. These regulations aim to minimize environmental impact and promote proper waste management [60].

3.2. India

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India is responsible for conducting all inspections and developing regulatory frameworks, procedures for assessing materials that come into contact with food and packaging, and guidelines for new products.

3.2.1. The Draft Food Safety and Standards (Packaging) Amendment Regulations (2022)

The Draft Food Safety and Standards (Packaging) Amendment Regulations (2022) were developed by the FSSAI based on the Plastic Waste Management (Amendment) Rules (2021), and they permit the use of recycled plastics as food packaging materials [61]. Recycled plastic items such as carry bags may be used to package, store, transport, or dispense food products as and when standards and recommendations are issued by the Food Authority, according to Section 16(5) of the Food Safety and Standards (Packaging) Amendment Regulations (2022) [61]. Additionally, these packaging materials must follow any supplementary national standards or legislation issued by the Food Authority.

Food business operators must ensure that the packaging complies with Indian standards. The packaging material must be of food-grade quality and be appropriate for the product type, the parameters given for food packaging, and the transportation requirements. The substance must be able to survive the mechanical, chemical, or thermal challenges that come with regular transit. Every owner or operator of a food business must receive a certificate of compliance from a laboratory recognized by the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration (NABL) [62].

The authorization from recycled plastics manufacturers in accordance with the Draft Food Safety and Standards (Packaging) Amendment Regulations (2022) allows the use of recycled plastics as food contact materials [63]. Operators of the recycling process and producers of recycled plastics must apply for and obtain authorization from the Food Authority by providing the required information in the specified Performa and paying a charge of INR 2000 to the Senior Accounts Officer, FSSAI. Such applications may be submitted to the Chief Executive Officer of the FSSAI.

3.2.2. The Plastic Waste Management (Amendment) Rules (2021)

India’s plastic recycling must adhere to the regulations outlined in Indian Standard 14534:1998 [83]. Food products ready to eat or drink cannot be packaged in recycled plastic carry bags [64]. Virgin or recycled plastic carry bags cannot be thinner than 120 microns. Polystyrene and expanded polystyrene are examples of single-use plastic materials that are forbidden. The production of carry bags, the recycling of plastic bags, and the use of multi-layered packaging all require registration with the State Pollution Control Board or other pertinent authorities. The initial registration period is one year, extending to three additional years. The State Pollution Control Board or Pollution Control Committee, as well as the local body, must receive annual reports on the recycling and processing of plastic trash. By August of each year, the Central Pollution Control Board must produce a thorough annual report on plastic waste management, including suggestions for the Central Government.

3.2.3. Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) in India

In accordance with the Plastic Waste Management Rules (2022), the Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change has published Guidelines on Extended Producer Responsibility for plastic packaging [65]. These recommendations seek to reduce the amount of plastic waste in the environment by introducing EPR and outlawing particular single-use plastic products with a high potential for littering. The scope addresses reuse, recycling, using recycled plastics, and end-of-life disposal. Producers, importers, and brand owners must register and submit an action plan outlining their EPR goals on a single website. To meet their EPR duties, they must also provide yearly reports on the plastic packaging trash they have gathered and processed. It is suggested that a network of collection places be built, considering things like population density, trash volume, accessibility, and proximity to end users, rather than only concentrating on financially successful locations.

3.3. United States of America (USA)

The main US set of laws governing food contact materials (FCM) is the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA) (1938). The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is in charge of administering this.

3.3.1. Guidance for Industry—Use of Recycled Plastics in Food Packaging: Chemistry Considerations (2021)

The objective of the guidance is to assist food packaging manufacturers in evaluating processes for incorporating post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastic into food packaging [66,67]. This guidance does not create obligations that are enforceable by law. Instead, guidance serves as recommendations and conveys current thoughts on a subject. The guidance outlines a suggested method for calculating the highest possible concentration of a chemical contaminant in recycled material; according to the FDA, exposure to pollutants from recycled food contact materials at levels of 1.5 micrograms/person/day (0.5 ppb DC) or less poses no harm in most cases. The guidance suggests a procedure for gathering chemistry information that would help assess how well a recycling process will eliminate chemical pollutants.

Three basic procedures can be used to classify various methods for recycling plastic packaging materials. Industrial trash is used in primary (1°) recycling, post-consumer plastic packaging is physically reprocessed in secondary (2°) recycling, and chemical breakdown and reprocessing is used in tertiary (3°) recycling. The FDA suggests exposing virgin polymers to various surrogate contaminants before putting the exposed or “challenged” polymers through the recycling process to show how a 2° or 3° recycling procedure can remove pollutants from plastic containers or packaging.

The FDA advises evaluating how well recycling procedures remove contaminants. According to the recommendations, utilizing recycled plastics in multilayer food containers as a non-food contact layer with a trustworthy barrier does not raise any issues with contaminant migration. The FDA feels that as long as the recycled polymer is kept apart from the food by a reliable barrier built of virgin polymer or another suitable material, such as an aluminum film, there is no reason to be concerned about potential contaminant migration into food with this use.

3.3.2. Regulations on Sustainable Food Packaging Materials in States of the USA

Different packaging regulations exist in the US for plastic and food packaging, as do programs for recycling packaging at the end of its useful life.

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California:

A recent California law mandates a thorough regulatory framework for single-use packaging manufacturers, retailers, and wholesalers. California became the first state to mandate that all plastic bottles contain a specific percentage of recycled plastic in October 2020. According to the regulation, plastic beverage bottles must typically include 15% recycled plastic. By 2030, this amount should reach 50% after being increased to 25% in 2025. There is an online platform, The Sustainable Packaging Act Reporting System (SPARS), designed to simplify the application process for compostable, recyclable, and reusable food service packaging. It aims to make it easier for individuals to submit their packaging materials for assessment and certification. By providing an online submission system, SPARS streamlines the process and promotes sustainability in the food service industry [68,69]. Some of the regulations are given in

Table 3. Regulations on sustainable food packaging in California.

Regulations	Objective	References
Sustainable Packaging for the State of California Act of 2018 (SB 1335)	To limit the amount of food service packaging that is thrown away by using reusable, recyclable, or compostable packaging.	[70]
SB 54: Plastic Pollution Prevention and Packaging Producer Responsibility Act (2022)	By 2032—100% of the packaging must be recyclable or compostable; plastic packaging must be reduced by 25%, and 65% of all single-use plastic packaging must be recycled.	[71]
Single-Use Carryout Bag Ban (SB 270) (2016)	Most stores have stopped providing single-use plastic bags and instead offer reusable grocery bags or recycled paper bags for a minimum fee of 10 cents.	[84]

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Washington:

Senate Bill (SB) 5022, which also established minimum recycled content criteria for plastic bottles, was introduced by the Washington State Senate. The law mandates that plastic packaging sold in Washington must include at least 15% post-consumer recycled material. By January 2027, it will increase to 25%, and by January 2031, it will be 50%. The measure also specified that the cost of adopting, managing, and upholding this regulation was the responsibility of beverage makers (or their third-party representatives).

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Oregon:

The Plastic Pollution and Recycling Modernization Act was enacted by Oregon in 2021. This EPR law mandates plastic packaging producers to join producer responsibility organizations, which collect membership dues based on each manufacturer’s environmental effect rather than imposing any precise percentage criteria [85].

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Maine:

In Maine, some regulations ban certain single-use plastic items. In 2019, Maine became the first state in the US to ban foam food containers, including plates, cups, and takeout containers. The ban went into effect in January 2021. Maine has also prohibited the sale of single-use plastic bags at retail stores. This ban is applied to all stores, including grocery stores, restaurants, and convenience stores.

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New York:

In 2019, New York State banned single-use plastic bags at retail stores, which went into effect in March 2020. The ban applies to most retail and grocery stores, except for certain bags, such as those used for bulk items or food takeout orders. Also, in 2021, New York City implemented a ban on polystyrene foam (commonly known as Styrofoam) food containers and packing peanuts. This ban applies to businesses such as restaurants, food trucks, and manufacturers. New York State is also exploring implementing an EPR program for packaging waste. In 2020, Governor Andrew Cuomo signed the state’s budget, which included a measure to establish a task force on EPR for packaging.

3.4. Australia

The Food Standards Australia New Zealand Act of 1991 created the independent statutory organization known as Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) [86]. Under the food standards code, FSANZ develops standards that govern the use of ingredients, processing aids, colorings, additives, vitamins, and minerals. It is also responsible for labeling specifications for packaged and unpackaged foods.

3.4.1. The Australian Packaging Covenant Organization (APCO)

The APCO collaborates with the government and businesses to minimize packaging’s harmful effects on Australia’s environment. The APCO is established by a co-regulatory agreement that places obligations on businesses to manage their packaging waste responsibly. It represents an industry-driven approach to product stewardship. Companies can obtain advice on how to increase the sustainability of their packaging by joining APCO. Additionally, they consent to joint obligations and duties to lessen the environmental impact of their packaging. Over 2,000 Australian companies are members of APCO, from huge global enterprises to small local firms, representing the whole packaging supply chain [87].

3.4.2. The National Plastic Plan 2021

Australia set the 2025 National Packaging Targets. These have laid out a fresh, green strategy for managing packaging in Australia. By 2025, all harmful and wasteful single-use plastic packaging must be eliminated [88]. Additionally, 70% of plastic packaging must be recycled or composted, 50% of typical recycled material must be present, and 100% must be reusable, recyclable, or compostable. Every type of packaging produced, used, and sold in Australia is subject to the National Packaging Targets. In addition, APCO has established material-specific targets for the percentage of recycled material in plastic packaging made of polyethylene (PET), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), and polypropylene (PP), which together account for 30%, 20%, and 20% of the total.

3.4.3. National Environment Protection (Used Packaging Materials) Measure (2011)

The objective is to promote waste reduction, reuse, and recycling of old packaging materials in order to preserve virgin materials and reduce environmental harm from the disposal of used packaging [89]. This is accomplished by aiding in the covenant’s performance evaluation and completing and supporting the voluntary strategies included. Participating jurisdictions should oblige brand owners to carry out or ensure the regular collection of consumer packaging used to sell the brand owner’s products, as well as its reuse and recycling. The company that owns the brand’s own products should reuse its packaging. It should be demonstrated that reasonable efforts have been taken to guarantee that customers are adequately informed about how the packaging will be recovered. Packaging should be used a supplementary resource both within Australia and for export.

Most state and territory governments in Australia have passed legislation or are looking into other options to support the transition from harmful and needless single-use plastic. For instance, South Australia’s Single-use and Other Plastic Products (Waste Avoidance) Act 2020, Hobart City’s local government’s single-use plastic ban by law, and Queensland’s proposed single-use plastic ban are in effect. These regulations aim to outlaw non-biodegradable plastic products, such as cups, coffee cups, pre-packaged fruit and vegetables, plastic beverage containers, and takeout food and beverage containers, in addition to outlawing lightweight single-use plastics [90]. With the transition to a circular economy, Australia is focusing on recycling as much packaging back into packaging as possible in order to preserve materials at their maximum potential value for as long as feasible. This strategy is crucial to the “circular transition”, because it acknowledges that these markets and the manufacturing capacity required to support them will take time to develop [91].

3.4.4. Sustainable Packaging Guidelines (SPGs) (2020)

The National Environment Protection (Used Packing Materials) Measure of 2011 (the NEPM) and the Australian Packaging Covenant established a co-regulatory framework, and the recommendations play a crucial role in that framework [92]. This guide aims to help APCO members achieve Australia’s 2025 National Packaging Goals, outlined in the National Plastic Plan (2021). This guide aims to help members integrate the concepts into the appropriate business sectors. The principles that should be considered when designing and purchasing packaging to increase sustainability are given in Figure 2.

3.5. Japan

The Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare (MHLW) of Japan has established specifications for several food packaging materials and their fundamental components. Japan also keeps a list of substances permitted to be used to create food packaging items or materials. In addition to MHLW regulations, makers of food contact materials must be prepared to follow industry standards and voluntary industry norms established by various Japanese trade groups. Among the most major and potent trade associations are the Japan Hygienic Olefin and Styrene Plastics Association (JHOSPA), the Japan Hygienic PVC Association (JHPA), and the Japan Paper Association (JPA). The rules and regulations controlling Japan’s sustainable food packaging standards include the Food Sanitation Law, the Plastic Resource Circulation Act, and the Containers and Packaging Recycling Act (1995) [93].

3.5.1. Food Sanitation Law (1947)

The objective is to preserve residents’ well-being by enforcing the laws and other required actions from the public health perspective, ensuring food safety and preventing sanitary dangers caused by eating and drinking [94].

It is forbidden to sell or use machinery, containers, or packaging that is specified by a Cabinet Order and for which the act has established standards unless it is marked with a label that confirms it has been examined by the Minister of Health, Labor, and Welfare, a prefectural governor, or a certified conformity inspector. A person who wants inspections must pay a price set by the Minister of Health, Labor, and Welfare while considering the actual evaluation costs. Both the licensed conformity assessment agency and the Treasury will count the payment as income.

Commercial activities require clean, hygienic containers and packaging. Any equipment, containers, or packaging that encounters food and negatively affects it or that includes or bears hazardous or toxic substances and is likely to harm human health is prohibited from sale, production, importation, or use in business. MHLW said that 425 chemical specifications would be altered, and 1161 substance additions would be introduced to the list of positive substances for food contact materials after conducting relevant safety studies [95]. The regulation covers utensils, containers, and packaging constructed of synthetic polymers.

3.5.2. Containers and Packaging Recycling Act (1995)

The objective is to satisfy the growing demand to reduce the volume of solid waste, maximize the use of recyclable materials through sorted collection, and recycle waste packaging [96]. The Japan Containers and Packaging Recycling Association (JCPRA) will carry out its obligation under the act to effectively manage and invest recycling fees collected by the designated business entities in recycling activities.

In order to create the best recycling circle, in which every one of us is aware of our specific role, JCPRA works with the government, municipalities, consumers, specific business entities, recyclers, and manufacturers who employ recycled materials in their products. For the specified business companies that pay “recycling fees” to the JCPRA, the JCPRA conducts recycling operations. They fulfill their legal duties in this manner. If a specified business entity fails to fulfil its obligations, it will be subject to penalty.

3.5.3. The Plastic Resource Circulation Act (Act No. 60 of 2021)

The objective is to encourage the active and strategic circulation of plastics, to minimize single-use plastics by retailers and service providers, for manufacturers to design for the environment, and to separate, collect, and recycle plastic waste by municipalities and the private sector [97].

The steps are intended to address the plastic life cycle and advance sustainability. Environmental factors should be taken into account when designing products, say manufacturers. Environmentally friendly designs can be certified, and government procurement preferences are given to certified products. Retailers and service providers must cut back on the usage of single-use plastics. Municipalities create programs for recycling plastic garbage. Manufacturers and retailers are urged to collect and recycle products, and with the permission of the appropriate ministries, they may recycle without service authorization. Waste producers are required to follow regulations to minimize and recycle plastic waste.

3.6. United Kingdom (UK)

The regulatory body is the Department for Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs. The UK environmental packaging regulations aim to promote more sustainable packaging and reduce the waste sent to landfills.

3.6.1. Producer Responsibility Obligations (Packaging Waste) Regulations (2007)

Producing companies who are obligated to use packaging must register and comply with their recycling requirements [72]. Obligated package producers are compelled to follow rules that reduce the quantity of initially produced packaging, increase the amount of recycled packaging trash, and decrease the amount that ends up in landfills.

Every year, by April 7, packaging producers must register as producers and fulfill their recycling obligations. The producer is required to obtain proof of compliance. A certificate of compliance must be submitted by the following year’s January 31.

3.6.2. The Plastic Packaging Tax (2022)

The objective is to enhance the demand for recycled plastics, encourage greater recycling rates, and reduce waste sent to landfills or incinerators [73].

3.6.3. Packaging (Essential Requirements) Regulations (2015)

The regulations implement the rules of the European Parliament and Council Directive on Packaging and Packaging Waste (94/62/EC) (“the Directive”) that deal with the essential requirements for packaging [74].

The goal is to only advertise products if the packaging conforms with the restrictions on the amount of heavy metals and fulfils the minimum standards. The regulations do not apply to packaging that is filled or packed for export outside of the EU. Packaging volume and weight must be kept to a minimum in order to maintain the required standards of safety, hygiene, and acceptance for the packaged product and the consumer. Packaging must be produced in a way that allows for reuse or recovery in accordance with specific specifications. The technical documentation or other information demonstrating that the packaging complies with the requirements must be provided by the responsible party within twenty-eight days of the date of a request. The packaging ought to fall apart during the waste disposal procedure. Packaging should maintain the waste treatment process and the quality of the produced compost.

3.6.4. Deposit Return Scheme (2023)

Under the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) [75], a small deposit is added to the purchase price of these containers at the point of sale, which is refunded to consumers when they return the empty containers for recycling. The objective is to increase recycling rates for beverage containers with effective programs, attaining 90% or higher collection goals. Using a DRS is anticipated to significantly reduce the amount of in-scope container litter in our cities and rural areas. The DRS will be a program driven by industry. Worldwide DRS implementation experience has demonstrated that industry-led schemes are most effective, since the industry can operate the DRS with its skills and vested interest in its success.

3.7. South Korea

The regulatory body is South Korea’s Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS).

3.7.1. Food Sanitation Act (2011)

The objective is to safeguard and promote national health by preventing sanitary risks brought on by food, to encourage the enhancement of food quality and nutrition, and to disseminate accurate information about food [76]. Article 8 prohibits the sale and use of poisonous apparatuses, among other things. Equipment, containers, or packages that are poisonous or harmful and likely to harm human bodies, as well as equipment, containers, or packages that harm human bodies when they come into contact with foods or food additives, are prohibited from being manufactured, imported, stored, transported, displayed, or used for commercial purposes.

3.7.2. Resource Recycling Act (2002)

Producers bound by Article 16 (1) of the act to recycle packaging materials must analyze their quality, structure, and recyclability. Producers that are required to recycle must submit the packing material quality and structure assessment [77].

3.7.3. Standards and Specifications for Utensils, Containers, and Packages (2021)

The goal is to encourage the distribution of safe utensils, containers, and packages, as well as to contribute to the security of consumer safety by preventing harm to public health by establishing specifications, etc. for suspected hazardous materials that can migrate to food from the utensils, containers, and packages that have direct contact with food or food additives [78].

When creating and processing utensils, containers, and packages, recycled plastics could be used on the non-food contact sides of multilayers, etc. Nonetheless, packaging must be produced without any possibility of dangerous materials migrating and then combining with food. If one of the following conditions is met, recycled plastics may be used to produce and process utensils, containers, and packages that come into contact with food:

○

When used, plastics are broken down into raw components using heat, chemicals, etc. and are then purified and repolymerized (chemical recycling);

○

In the event that mechanically recycled PET is accepted as meeting the “Standards for recycled synthetic polymers used for manufacturing of utensils, containers, and packaging”.

3.8. China

Food safety and hygiene, as well as the evaluation of food packaging materials and the development of food standards in China, are under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Health and National Health Commission. Food packaging manufacturers must possess a certificate of quality and safety from China’s General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection, and Quarantine (AQSIQ).

3.8.1. GB/T 38082-2019 Biodegradable Plastic Bags

Resins that degrade quickly are used to make plastic bags. Shopping bags made of biodegradable plastic used in food packaging should be clearly labeled [79]. The name, standard number, thickness, and size requirements of the bag should be listed on the label. Biodegradable plastic shopping bags must have a minimum thickness of 0.015 mm. The biodegradation rate of products manufactured from a single polymer should be less than 50% for single-component materials. The item will be considered qualifying if all of the food safety standards of the biodegradable plastic shopping bags in direct contact with food are met; if not, the item will be judged as failing.

3.8.2. GB 4806.6-2016 Resins Used to Make Plastics in Contact with Food

This standard applies to the production of unvulcanized thermoplastic elastomer resin and its blend, as well as resin and its blend for food contact packaging plastic materials and products [80]. It must adhere to the GB 4806.1 requirements for food packaging plastic resin to ensure that it will not endanger people when used as intended. Regulations on the physical and chemical properties of monomers and initiators, such as precise migration limits and maximum residue amounts, are included in the standard. Additionally, it offers a list of acceptable plastic resins and guidelines for their use.

3.8.3. GB/T 20197-2006 Define, Classify, Marking, and Degradability Requirement of Degradable Plastics

The standard outlines the degradable plastic’s classification, degradability specifications, and test procedures [81]. Degradable materials such as natural and/or synthetic polymers, copolymers, or combinations are relevant. Additive-filled plastic is made with plasticizers, colors, and water-soluble polymers and processed using various biodegradable plastic materials.

3.8.4. GB/T 27868-2011 Starch-Based Biodegradable Resins

The regulations outline the terms and definitions, categories and models, specifications, test procedures, inspection guidelines, packaging, signs, transportation, and storage for biodegradable starch resin. Starch, used as the primary raw material in the production of biodegradable starch resin, is covered by the law [82].

4. Comparison among Different Countries

4.1. Comparison of the Regulations on Sustainable Food Packaging

The countries discussed in this study have taken various approaches to address sustainable food packaging, including bans on specific items, implementing regulations, and introducing EPR and positive list systems. India has banned several single-use plastics and has specific regulations in the Food Safety and Standards (Packaging) Amendment Regulations (2022). It also has extended producer responsibility (EPR) under the Plastic Waste Management Rules (2016).

The EU has taken strong measures by enforcing a directive that bans various single-use plastic items. It has regulations, such as Regulation (EC) No. 1935/2004 and Regulation (EU) No. 10/2011, as well as the Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive (94/62/EC) and a Positive List Regulation (EU) No. 10/2011. China has implemented a ban on single-use plastic bags in some regions and is proposing a nationwide ban on non-degradable plastic bags, straws, and cutlery by 2025. It follows the Solid Waste Pollution Prevention and Control Law (2005) and has specific regulations, such as GB 4806.6-2016 and GB 9685-2016. Japan does not have a nationwide ban on single-use plastics. However, it follows the Food Sanitation Act and has regulations under the Containers and Packaging Recycling Law (2000). It also has a Positive List System.

The USA has no nationwide ban on single-use plastics, but several states have implemented regulations. The country guides the use of recycled plastics and has the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act in place. It lacks federal EPR regulations. South Korea has implemented a ban on plastic bags in some stores and has proposed a ban on single-use plastic cups, straws, and cutlery by 2027. It follows the Standards for Recycling Raw Materials for Food Containers under the Resource Recycling Act but does not have EPR regulations. The UK has implemented bans on single-use plastic straws, stirrers, and cotton buds since October 2020, with plans to ban plastic cutlery, plates, and polystyrene products by 2023. It follows the Producer Responsibility Obligations (Packaging Waste) Regulations (2007) and has regulations under the Packaging Waste Regulations (2007), amended in 2015. The Materials and Articles in Contact with Food (England) Regulations (2012) are also in place. Australia has banned single-use plastic bags in some states and plans to ban plastic straws, stirrers, and cutlery by 2025. Though it does not have specific regulations, it provides guidelines on sustainable packaging. The National Environment Protection (Used Packaging Materials) Measure (2011) requires companies to become signatories to the Australian Packaging Covenant Organization (APCO), promoting sustainable practices. There is also a ban on several single-use plastics. A comparison of the regulations on sustainable food packaging among the mentioned countries is given in

Table 4. Comparison of the regulations on sustainable food packaging.

	Criteria	Ban on Single-Use Plastics	Sustainable Food Packaging Regulations	EPR	Positive List Regulations
Countries
India		Ban on several single-use plastics	Food Safety and Standards (Packaging) Amendment Regulations (2022)	Under Plastic Waste Management Rules (2016)	Food Safety and Standards (Packaging) Amendment Regulations (2022)
EU		Directive banning several single-use plastic items in effect since July 2021	Regulation (EC) No. 1935/2004 Regulation (EU) No. 10/2011	Under the Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive (94/62/EC) (1994)	Regulation (EU) No. 10/2011
China		Ban on single-use plastic bags in some regions, proposed nationwide ban on non-degradable plastic bags, straws, and cutlery by 2025	GB 4806.6-2016	Under the Solid Waste Pollution Prevention and Control Law (2005)	GB 9685-2016
Japan		No nationwide ban	Food Sanitation Act	Under the Containers and Packaging Recycling Law (2000)	Positive List System
USA		No nationwide ban	Guidance for Use of Recycled Plastics	The USA does not have federal EPR regulations, but several states do	Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act
South Korea		Ban on plastic bags in some stores, proposed ban on single-use plastic cups, straws, and cutlery by 2027	Standards for Recycling Raw Materials for Food Containers	Under the Resource Recycling Act	None
UK		Ban on single-use plastic straws, stirrers, and cotton buds since October 2020, ban on plastic cutlery, plates, and polystyrene products by 2023	Producer Responsibility Obligations (Packaging Waste) Regulations (2007)	Under the Packaging Waste Regulations (2007) and amended in 2015	The Materials and Articles in Contact with Food (England) Regulations (2012)
Australia		Ban on single-use plastic bags in some states, proposed ban on plastic straws, stirrers, and cutlery by 2025	There are no specific regulations, but guidelines exist	The National Environment Protection (Used Packaging Materials) Measure (2011) requires companies to become signatories to the APCO	Ban on several single-use plastics

.

4.2. Comparison of the Regulations on Recycled Plastic in Food Packaging

Some countries have specific regulations and standards for recycled plastic content in food packaging; others provide guidance or have no specific regulations. The requirements for testing, certification, and registration fees vary among the countries. In India, the FSS (Packaging) Amendment Regulations (2022) allow for a recycled content of 50% (w/w). FSSAI-accredited labs carry out testing and certification of packaging. The registration fees are INR 2000, and the timeline for compliance is within six months. In the EU, Regulation (EC) No. 282/2008 sets the regulations for recycled plastic in food packaging. The allowed recycled content varies depending on the material and application. The certification and testing process requires a Declaration of Compliance (DoC) and testing and certification by accredited laboratories. The timeline for compliance is 30 days. There is no specific regulation or standard for recycled plastic in food packaging in China. The National Health and Family Planning Commission oversees food safety regulations.

Japan has regulations on recycling containers under the Containers and Packaging Recycling Act. The regulatory body is the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare. The allowed recycled content and fees depend on the amount of the product. The testing and certification requirements are not specified. The compliance timeline is from December to March. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) provides guidance for using recycled plastics in food packaging in the USA. The guidelines do not specify allowed recycled content or registration fees. Testing and certification are not mandatory, and only guidance on testing is provided. In South Korea, the Standard for Recycling Raw Materials for Food Containers is regulated by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety. The allowed recycled content and registration fees depend on the amount of the product. The testing and certification requirements are not specified. The compliance timeline is typically 2–4 months.

The UK retains Regulation (EC) No. 282/2008 for recycled plastic in food packaging. The Department for Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs oversees these regulations. The allowed recycled content and fees vary depending on the material and application. Testing and certification by accredited laboratories are required. The compliance timeline can be up to 15 months. Australia follows the National Environment Protection (Used Packaging Materials) Measure and associated guidelines for recycled plastic in food packaging. The regulatory body is the Food Standards Australia New Zealand. The allowed recycled content and registration fees vary depending on the material and application. Accredited laboratories or third-party certification bodies can perform testing and certification. A comparison of the regulations on recycled plastic in food packaging among the mentioned countries is given in

Table 5. Comparison of the regulations on recycled plastic in food packaging.

	Criteria	Regulation/Standard	Regulatory Body	Allowed Recycled Content	Registration Fees	Testing and Certification	Timeline
Countries
India		FSS (Packaging) Amendment Regulations (2022)	Food Safety and Standards Authority of India	50% (w/w)	INR 2000	Testing and certification by FSSAI-accredited Labs	Within six months
EU		Regulation (EC) No. 282/2008	The European Parliament And The Council	Varies by material and application	Depends on amount of product	DoC, testing, and certification by accredited laboratories	30 days
China		None	National Health and Family Planning Commission	-	-	-	-
Japan		Regulation on recycling containers: Containers and Packaging Recycling Act	Japanese Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare	-	Depends on amount of product	-	December to March
USA		Guidance for Industry: Use of Recycled Plastics in Food Packaging	Food and Drug Administration	-	-	Only guidance on testing	-
South Korea		Standard for Recycling Raw Materials for Food Containers	Ministry of Food and Drug Safety	-	Depends on amount of product	-	2-4 months
UK		Retained regulation (EC) No. 282/2008	Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs	Varies by material and application	Depends on amount of product	DoC, testing, and certification by accredited laboratories	Up to 15 months
Australia		National Environment Protection (Used Packaging Materials) Measure/Guidelines	Food Standards Australia New Zealand	Varies by material and application	-	Testing and certification by accredited laboratories or third-party certification bodies	-

.

5. Future Scope

The use of biodegradable and compostable materials such as bioplastics is expected to increase as these materials become more cost-effective and widely available. These materials potentially reduce the waste generated from food packaging and help mitigate the environmental impact of packaging waste. Recyclable and recycled materials, such as paper and cardboard, are also expected to increase. Advances in recycling technology and infrastructure are making recycling and incorporating these materials into new packaging products easier. Improvements in recycling technologies can improve the recyclability of packaging materials and reduce the amount of waste generated from packaging.

Regulations are anticipated to encourage the use of packaging materials that are readily recyclable and can be processed and sorted in recycling facilities. Future laws are expected to target single-use plastics in an effort to reduce their use and promote more sustainable and environmentally friendly alternatives. Food packaging might be included in EPR initiatives, which would hold producers accountable for the complete product life cycle, including collection, recycling, and proper disposal. Sustainable food packaging materials are expected to play a vital role in advancing the circular economy in the food packaging industry. Many nations are now considering or preparing to enact legislation requiring sustainable food packaging. At the state and federal levels, there has been a surge in interest in sustainable packaging rules in the United States. National legislation on reducing and recycling plastic trash is currently the subject of ongoing discussions and suggestions. Brazil is looking into possible measures to manage packaging waste and has shown a rising interest in environmentally friendly packaging. New Zealand has made it clear that it is committed to fighting plastic pollution and cutting back on waste.

6. Discussion

The regulations governing environmentally friendly food packaging are pivotal in shaping sustainable practices and directly impacting people’s daily lives globally. These regulations aim to mitigate the environmental impact of packaging waste by promoting the use of recyclable, biodegradable, and compostable materials. By setting stringent norms, governments encourage the adoption of eco-friendly alternatives, thereby enabling consumers to make informed choices that align with their sustainable values.

6.1. Implementation and Compliance

A vital aspect of these regulations is their implementation and compliance. For instance, the EU’s Single-Use Plastics Directive and Circular Economy Action Plan have established ambitious targets to reduce plastic waste and promote a circular economy [98]. These measures have led to increased recycling rates, decreased littering, and a significant shift towards more environmentally friendly materials in the packaging industry [99]. The enforcement of these regulations involves comprehensive monitoring and reporting mechanisms, ensuring that manufacturers comply with the new standards [100].

In India, the Plastic Waste Management Rules aim to curb plastic waste by encouraging the use of compostable and biodegradable materials [101]. The government has implemented measures to monitor compliance, including regular inspections and penalties for non-compliance [102]. This has reduced littering and spurred demand for eco-friendly packaging options, illustrating the positive impact of stringent regulatory frameworks [103].

China, the largest consumer of packaging materials, has introduced policies to mitigate the environmental effects of packaging waste. The Solid Waste Pollution Prevention and Control Law has strengthened waste management systems and improved recycling rates [104]. Compliance is ensured through strict regulations and substantial penalties for violations, underscoring the importance of robust enforcement mechanisms [105].

6.2. Critical Insights on Implementation

Despite these successes, the implementation of sustainable packaging regulations faces significant challenges. In many regions, the lack of adequate recycling and waste management infrastructure hampers the effective enforcement of these laws [106]. For example, though the EU has made considerable progress, disparities in recycling capabilities among member states can lead to inconsistent outcomes [100]. This highlights the need for harmonized infrastructure development to support uniform compliance.

Moreover, the financial burden on businesses to comply with new regulations can be substantial. Small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) may need help with the costs associated with transitioning to sustainable packaging materials and processes [103]. Policymakers must consider providing incentives, subsidies, or support programs to ease this transition and ensure broad-based compliance [106].

6.3. Future Trajectory and Developments

Looking ahead, the trajectory of sustainable food packaging regulations will likely focus on further reducing the use of single-use plastics and enhancing the adoption of circular economy principles. For instance, Japan’s Packaging Recycling Act promotes the use of recycled materials and mandates businesses to participate in recycling initiatives [107]. This legislative framework has significantly reduced packaging waste and conserved natural resources [107].

Australia and South Korea are also making strides towards sustainable packaging. Australia’s National Packaging Targets aim for all packaging to be compostable, recyclable, or reusable by 2025, advocating for circular economy principles and the use of sustainable materials [108]. South Korea’s Resource Recycling Act similarly emphasizes waste reduction and resource conservation, monitoring compliance through rigorous regulatory oversight [109].

6.4. Implications for Researchers and Practitioners

For researchers and practitioners, understanding the regulatory landscape is crucial for driving innovation and developing sustainable packaging solutions [98]. The detailed analysis provided in this manuscript serves as a vital resource, offering insights into the objectives, implementation strategies, and outcomes of various regulatory measures [99]. This knowledge is essential for aligning research efforts with regulatory requirements, ensuring that new products meet the necessary standards for commercial production [103].

Furthermore, these regulations present opportunities for advancing the transition toward a circular economy. By fostering sustainable practices, they encourage the development of innovative materials and packaging designs that minimize environmental impact [107]. Researchers can leverage this information to explore new avenues for reducing packaging waste, enhancing recyclability, and promoting the use of renewable resources [108].

Additionally, it is critical to examine the life cycle impacts of new packaging materials. Though biodegradable and compostable materials offer promising alternatives, their production and disposal processes must be carefully managed to avoid unintended environmental consequences [106]. Life cycle assessments (LCAs) can help identify potential trade-offs and ensure that the overall environmental benefits of these materials are realized [107].

6.5. Addressing Emerging Challenges

As regulations evolve, new challenges will emerge that require adaptive and responsive strategies. For instance, the rise of e-commerce has significantly increased the demand for packaging materials, necessitating innovative solutions to manage this growth sustainably [103]. Developing standardized guidelines for sustainable e-commerce packaging could mitigate the environmental impacts of this sector’s rapid expansion [108].

Another emerging issue is the contamination of recycling streams, which can undermine the efficacy of recycling programs. Improved consumer education and more explicit labeling can help ensure that recyclable materials are properly sorted and processed, enhancing the overall efficiency of recycling efforts [109].

Overall, the global push for sustainable food packaging regulations is driving significant changes in the industry, promoting eco-friendly alternatives, and reducing environmental impacts [98]. The implementation and compliance mechanisms discussed herein highlight the effectiveness of these regulations in achieving their goals [99]. As the regulatory landscape continues to evolve, ongoing research and innovation will be crucial in advancing sustainable packaging practices and supporting the transition towards a more sustainable future [103]. Policymakers, industry stakeholders, and researchers must collaborate to overcome implementation challenges, capitalize on emerging opportunities, and ensure that the benefits of sustainable packaging regulations are fully realized [106].

7. Conclusions

Sustainable packaging materials, such as biodegradable plastics, compostable materials, and recycled materials, are less environmentally harmful than traditional packaging materials. They can help reduce the amount of waste in landfills and minimize the carbon footprint of food packaging. Many consumers today are concerned about the environmental impact of packaging waste and prefer products that are packaged in sustainable materials. Using sustainable packaging, food companies can meet consumer demands and build brand loyalty. Many countries and regions have regulations that require sustainable packaging materials or set targets for reducing packaging waste.

Since single-use and non-biodegradable plastics have a negative influence on the environment, sustainable food packaging regulations have gained importance on a global scale. Several nations have implemented regulations to cut down on packaging waste and promote eco-friendly alternatives. The usage of recyclable, compostable, or biodegradable materials is frequently the subject of these rules, which may also call for labeling and consumer education. Generally, the trend toward sustainable food packaging legislation is anticipated to continue, with more nations and regions putting policies into place to cut waste and encourage a circular economy. This will probably spur the development of new environmentally friendly packaging materials and motivate companies to use greener methods.