PPWR Rules Set 15 January Deadline for Mandatory Sorting Symbols on All EU Supplement Jars

The European Commission finalized the technical specifications for the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) marking requirements this morning. Every supplement container sold in the EU must now feature the standardized waste sorting pictogram. This regulation overrides national schemes like the French Triman or Italian environmental labeling, creating a single legal standard for the bloc.

Phasing Out National Symbols for Harmonized Pictograms

If you are holding stock of labels with the Green Dot or Triman logos, stop new print runs immediately. The new system uses a color-coded matrix based on material type. HDPE jars for protein or capsules will require the yellow 02 symbol, while aluminum seals and lids must be marked separately if they are not integrated into the main disposal path.

• Jars and bottles must carry a minimum 6mm by 6mm sorting pictogram.
• Labels must specify the component material using the Decision 97/129/EC alphanumeric codes.
• QR codes are permitted to provide detailed disposal instructions but cannot replace the physical pictogram.
• Existing stock placed on the market before 15 January 2027 can remain for sale until 2028.

Sourcing and Procurement Impact

Procurement managers should expect a 0.02 EUR per unit increase from label converters for the additional graphics work and printing plates. If your label real estate is limited due to required EFSA health claims and multi-language panels, move to peel-and-reveal labels. Contract manufacturers in Poland and Germany are already reporting a three week increase in lead times for specialized PPWR compliant secondary packaging.

For brands selling in Italy and France specifically, the alignment of these rules simplifies the supply chain. You no longer need separate SKUs for these markets. Use the next six months to audit your rPET and HDPE supply to ensure they meet the 2030 recycled content floor which is being audited starting this December.