How the New European Packaging Regulation Affects a Breadcrumbs Manufacturer

Sustainability no longer depends solely on the product itself. Increasingly, it is also shaped by the packaging that protects it, transports it and makes it available to customers.

With the progressive implementation of the new European Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), manufacturers, distributors and the food industry will have to adapt to new requirements relating to packaging design, recyclability and management.

For a breadcrumbs manufacturer, this development represents an opportunity to review processes, anticipate market requirements and continue offering solutions aligned with the expectations of both domestic and international customers.

What is the PPWR and why is it relevant to the food industry?

Regulation (EU) 2025/40 on packaging and packaging waste, known as the PPWR (Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation), aims to reduce the environmental impact of packaging throughout its entire life cycle.

Unlike the previous legislation, which was based on a directive, the PPWR establishes a common framework that is directly applicable across EU Member States, with measures aimed at:

• Reducing the generation of packaging waste.
• Promoting design for recycling.
• Supporting the circular economy.
• Increasing the use of recycled materials in certain types of packaging.
• Improving information and traceability throughout the supply chain.

Many of its provisions will begin to apply generally from 12 August 2026, although some obligations have specific implementation timelines.

 

How the new regulation may affect a breadcrumbs manufacturer

Although breadcrumbs are the main product, packaging is also part of the value proposition delivered to the customer.

In the B2B channel, where industrial sacks and large-format packaging are predominant, regulatory developments will require even greater attention to aspects such as packaging design, composition and end-of-life management.

For a breadcrumbs manufacturer, this means focusing not only on the product itself, but also on all the elements involved in its distribution.

Industrial packaging is becoming increasingly important in the supply chain

Packaging used in the food industry performs multiple functions: protecting the product, facilitating handling, optimising transport and preserving quality during storage.

Under the PPWR, these functions will need to coexist with new sustainability-related criteria.

Among the aspects expected to become increasingly important are:

• Packaging recyclability.
• The reduction of unnecessary materials.
• Optimisation of weight and volume.
• Correct identification of the materials used.

This is not simply about complying with a legal requirement, but also about responding to growing demand from customers who incorporate environmental criteria into their purchasing processes.

Documentation will become increasingly important for a breadcrumbs manufacturer

Regulatory developments also reinforce the importance of the information accompanying the product.

In the coming years, the food industry will need to manage a growing volume of packaging-related documentation, both to facilitate regulatory compliance and to respond to customer requests and audits.

For a breadcrumbs manufacturer, having clear information about the materials used, their recyclability and the characteristics of the packaging will help provide a more comprehensive service that is better adapted to new market requirements.

Sustainability is already influencing B2B purchasing decisions

Environmental criteria are increasingly becoming part of supplier approval processes.

Large manufacturers, distributors and foodservice chains assess factors that go beyond the product itself, such as:

• The supplier’s environmental commitment.
• Documentation transparency.
• The ability to adapt to new regulations.
• Continuous improvement in processes and materials.

In this context, a breadcrumbs manufacturer that incorporates these criteria into its strategy will be better prepared to meet the needs of customers operating under responsible purchasing policies or ESG criteria.

Preparing today for tomorrow’s requirements

Although many PPWR obligations will be implemented progressively, companies that begin reviewing their processes in advance will have greater flexibility to adapt.

This includes analysing aspects such as:

• The suitability of packaging formats.
• The management of packaging materials.
• The information provided to customers.
• The integration of circular economy principles into the supply chain.

Adaptation should not be seen solely as a regulatory obligation, but also as an opportunity to strengthen competitiveness and respond to market expectations.

A breadcrumbs manufacturer prepared for an evolving industry

The food industry is undergoing a transformation that affects both products and the processes surrounding them.

At Frumen, we understand that the quality of an ingredient also depends on how it is presented, protected and delivered to the customer. That is why we closely monitor developments in the European regulatory framework in order to continue offering solutions aligned with the needs of the food industry.

Because being a breadcrumbs manufacturer today means much more than producing a high-quality product. It also means moving towards a more efficient, transparent supply chain that is better prepared for the challenges of the future.