EU BPA restrictions move closer as food packaging transition deadline approaches

Packaging manufacturers and food producers across Europe are preparing for new restrictions on the use of bisphenol A (BPA) in food contact materials, with a key compliance deadline set for July 2026.

The restrictions form part of Commission Regulation (EU) 2024/3190, which prohibits the use of BPA and other hazardous bisphenols in most food contact applications. While the regulation entered into force in January 2025, an 18-month transition period allows many affected products to remain on the market until 20 July 2026.

BPA has historically been used in a range of food contact materials, including epoxy resin coatings and linings for metal packaging. The substance has been classified as an endocrine disruptor and can interfere with the body's hormonal system.

The new rules are intended to reduce consumer exposure to BPA and encourage the adoption of alternative materials across the food packaging supply chain. However, certain applications will benefit from extended transition periods until January 2028, reflecting the challenges associated with replacing BPA in some specialist uses.

The regulation represents one of the most significant recent changes to food contact materials legislation in the European Union and is expected to have implications for packaging manufacturers, converters and food producers throughout the region.