Disposable containers: which are allowed by 2025 environmental regulations?

Date

5 November 2025

Category

Reading time

1 Minute

2025 marks an important turning point for the world of food packaging. New european environmental regulations change the way disposable containers are produced, used and disposed of. The goal is clear: to reduce waste, encourage recycling and promote sustainable materials. But which containers will actually remain allowed in 2025? And what changes for restaurants, bars and food companies?

New european regulations for a more sustainable packaging

With the entry into force of the Regulation UE 2025/40 and the evolution of SUP (Single-Use Plastics) Directive, the European Union introduces stricter standards for all packaging, particularly food and takeaway packaging.

The main purpose of the new regulation are to:

Reduce the amount of unnecessary and non-recyclable packaging;
Encourage the use of compostable and recycled materials;
Limit traditional disposable plastic;
Promote efficient collection and recycling systems.

In other words, the packaging of the future must be functional, recyclable and traceable, guaranteeing a lower environmental impact throughout its life cycle.

Which disposable containers will be allowed

Contrary to popular belief, disposable will not be banned completely, but regulated based on materials and recyclability. Containers will still be allowed in 2025:

Compostable and biodegradable, such as those made of cardboard kraft, PLA or CPLA (bioplastics of plant origin);

Recycled or recyclable, such as PP (polypropylene) or R-PET (recycled PET) trays;

With minimum percentages of recycled material, as established by the new EU standards (at least 10% for non-PET plastics and 25% for PET bottles);

Without dangerous substances or additives not allowed (such as PFAS, currently subject to severe restrictions);

Correctly labelled, according to Legislative Decree 116/2020, with indication of materials and disposal instructions.

In addition, reusable solutions for in-house service and compostable takeaway packaging will be encouraged, especially in the Horeca sector.

What will no longer be admitted

Containers will be progressively eliminated from the market:

Made of traditional non-recyclable plastic;
Made of expanded polyester (EPS), like some models of trays and glasses;
Devoid of environmental information or not complying with labelling standards;
Which do not respect the new minimum thresholds for recycled material.

This change directly involves restaurateurs, food producers and distributors, who will have to adapt by choosing certified suppliers and compliant materials.

GoPack: sustainable and certified disposable solutions

GoPack support companies in the transition towards a more sustainable future, offering disposable containers compliant with 2025 regulations, made of certified, recyclable and compostable materials. From organic heat-sealable trays to compostable glasses and cutlery, up to customized takeaway and delivery packaging, each GoPack product is designed to combine safety, functionality and respect for the environment.