Freshfel wants the EU to harmonize packaging legislation

Over the past 2 years, the implementation of different national packaging legislation for fresh produce has created enormous operational complexity in the single market, leading to higher costs for operators without delivering sustainability. Members of Freshfel Europe claimed that the situation needs to be resolved through the harmonization of EU packaging rules, in particular through the ongoing review of the Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive (Directive 94/ 62/EC), so that the sector can take real steps in the sustainability of packaging.

 

Differing legislation leads to costly operational complexities involving unsustainable practices. Nicola Pisano, Director of Sustainability at Freshfel Europe, said: "Current rules requiring different packaging and labeling for each Member State lead to increased packaging waste and resources, which is neither beneficial to the neither for the environment nor for the economy and contrary to the objectives of EU legislation". Mr Pisano added: "The revision of Directive 94/62/EC must change that. Now is the time to act, especially given the current push to maintain food safety in the European Union."

 

The fresh fruit and vegetable sector confirms its desire to move towards more environmentally friendly solutions. By studying all the options and types of packaging, while meeting the necessary requirements in terms of labeling and traceability, and meeting consumer expectations in terms of the convenience, safety and freshness of fruits and vegetables for increase consumption.