Improving circularity of multilayer flexible plastic food contact packaging

The funding program “Improving circularity of multilayer flexible plastic food contact packaging” aims at developing market-ready, mono-material-based multilayer film packaging for the EU internal market that combines food safety and recyclability. In close collaboration among plastic raw material producers, polymer and additive suppliers, packaging manufacturers, brand and food companies, as well as waste management and recycling specialists, innovative physical and digital technologies—such as AI-supported sorting, watermarks, or digital product passports—are to be demonstrated at an industrial scale. This is complemented by the validation of recycling processes (separation, cleaning, de-ozonation) and the testing of return strategies for recyclate in new food packaging. The funding amount is €5–6 million with a funding rate of 70%. Eligible applicants are SMEs, companies, non-profit organizations, educational and public institutions from EU member states or associated countries that operate in the processing plastics industry or the circular economy and form a consortium of several value chain partners. Required submission documents include, among others, Part B of the project description, financing plan, and CVs of key personnel. The submission deadline is 17 September 2026 (Brussels time).

Expected outcomes are a demonstrable increase in recycling rates for flexible multilayer films, the safe reuse of recyclate in food contact applications, and the promotion of an EU-wide market for circular packaging. Evaluation criteria include the degree of innovation, relevance of the expected impact, and implementation efficiency. The combination of research, eco-design, and digital sorting and return infrastructure aims to support industry and society in practically implementing EU requirements on packaging waste, circular economy, and food safety—a crucial step toward achieving climate protection goals and fostering a sustainable internal market.