Breaking: New EU Rules on Pet Food Packaging — What Pet Owners Need to Know

In late 2025, the European Union finalized revised rules governing packaging, labeling, and recycled content requirements for pet food and pet supply packaging. These regulatory changes aim to reduce plastic waste and encourage circular packaging systems across the pet industry. The regulations will phase in over 2026–2028 and have global implications for brands that export to the EU.

Key changes in the new regulation

• Minimum recycled content: Rigid packaging will need at least 30% recycled content by 2027; flexible packaging faces phased targets of 10% in 2027 and 25% by 2029 depending on material types.
• Compostability labeling: Only industrially compostable packaging can claim compostability; home-compost labels require certification and clarity to avoid confusion.
• Mandatory recyclability markers: Clear, standardized labels will inform consumers about local disposal options (recycle, compost, or landfill).
• Extended producer responsibility (EPR): Brands will contribute to collection and recycling programs proportionate to the packaging they place on the market.

What this means for consumers

Short-term, shoppers may notice price adjustments as companies invest in compliant packaging. In the medium term, the benefits include more recyclable pet food bags, clearer labeling that reduces contamination in recycling streams, and possibly more refill systems and bulk options as brands seek to avoid compliance costs.

Impacts on pet supply brands

Smaller brands that lack economies of scale may face higher per-unit costs to redesign packaging. However, the regulation also creates opportunities for innovation: compostable liners that meet standards, reusable pouches with recyclable caps, and subscription refill systems that reduce single-use waste.

"Regulation can accelerate sustainable innovation. Expect to see creative packaging solutions and more transparency from brands."

How to shop during the transition

• Look for clear, standardized labels — avoid ambiguous claims like "biodegradable" without certification.
• Consider bulk or refill options where available — they often have the lowest packaging footprint per serving.
• Support brands investing in verified recycled content and reusable programs.

Questions for brands to answer

When you see a new label, ask:

• What percentage of recycled content is in the package?
• Is the product part of an EPR or take-back program?
• Is compostability certified and under what conditions (industrial vs home)?

Timeline at a glance

• 2026: Labeling standards begin to apply; companies must disclose end-of-life instructions.
• 2027: Minimum recycled content targets for rigid packaging enforced.
• 2028–2029: Additional targets for flexible packaging and higher thresholds phased in.

Global ripple effects

Because many pet product manufacturers serve international markets, we expect the EU rules to influence packaging globally. Brands that streamline packaging systems for the EU often apply those solutions in North America and Asia to reduce SKUs and complexity.

Final takeaways

If you're a consumer, start paying attention to disposal labels and explore refill options. If you’re a brand, now’s the time to plan supply-chain changes, test recycled materials, and work with certified recyclers to ensure compliance and build consumer trust.