Managing Recycled Plastic Compliance under European Waste Rules
Managing recycled plastic compliance under EU waste rules requires challenge-tested decontamination, accredited migration testing, and audited traceability dossiers.
Union Register
Meaning
Centralized digital database maintained by the European Commission to list authorized plastic recycling processes and their safety status. It governs the legal market access for food grade recyclates and stops applying to processes that have not applied for or received authorization.
Process Authorization
Official entries confirm that a specific decontamination technology has been evaluated and approved for food contact use. The union register identifies the recycler and the specific equipment configuration used during the challenge test. Only processes listed here can legally produce recycled plastic for the European food market.
This listing is permanent unless the facility changes its core technology.
Data Transparency
Public access to the register allows brand owners and converters to verify the compliance status of their suppliers. Each entry includes the scientific opinion issued by the food safety authority and the conditions of use. This information prevents the use of unvalidated or unsafe recycling methods.
The database is updated whenever a new authorization is granted.
Market Access
Validation through the registry is a mandatory requirement for any company selling recycled resins for food packaging. Facilities must regularly update their information to show any changes in ownership or plant location. Failure to maintain a valid entry results in the immediate loss of food grade certification.