Freshfel Europe calls for more time to adjust to France’s new plastic packaging requirements

Freshfel Europe has warned the European Commission of the implications for the fresh fruit and vegetables sector of the new French plastic legislation, which will come into force on 1st January 2022. Freshfel Europe argues that the French law, which bans plastic packaging on fruit and vegetable products of less than 1.5 kg, goes well beyond the requirements of the European Directive aimed at reducing plastic products and is urging the European Commission to request  France allow more time for the fresh produce sector to adapt to the new requirements. Freshfel Europe warned that the new legislation might also significantly endanger other environmental priorities undertaken by the sector, namely its commitments towards food quality and the highest safety ambition for fresh produce as well as waste prevention initiatives. Freshfel Europe also voices concerns that, pending the introduction of new innovative solutions on stickers, information to consumers might also be compromised.