Do not display labels, marks, symbols or inscriptions likely to mislead or confuse consumers about packaging sustainability, other packaging characteristics, or waste-management options where this Regulation has harmonised the labelling.

Economic operators are prohibited, and this is law in force.

Why it matters

This is law in force, not a proposal.

It is Art. 12(8), in the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation. as of 2026-08-18
The act gives its timing as: From 12 August 2026 (Art. 71). as of 2026-08-18
It names 7 industries by name: Plastics converting, Paper and board, Glass, Aluminium, Wood, Food and drink and Retail. as of 2026-08-18
Compliance is checked by market surveillance authority, continuous. as of 2026-08-18

Addressee Economic operatorsAct Regulation (EU) 2025/40, base actArticle Art. 12(8)Class Businesses

What changes

All operators using on-pack environmental marks. Bites hardest on voluntary eco-labels and recyclability claims that duplicate or contradict the harmonised label.

The rule

New — no predecessor

Trigger

any label, mark, symbol or inscription on packaging

Obligation

Do not display labels, marks, symbols or inscriptions likely to mislead or confuse consumers about packaging sustainability, other packaging characteristics, or waste-management options where this Regulation has harmonised the labelling.

Who is affected

Addressee

Economic operators

Class

Businesses

Sectors

Names Plastics converting, Paper and board, Glass and ceramics, Aluminium and metals, Wood and wood products, Food, drink and tobacco, Retail and distribution · Reaches Waste and landfill

Applies

From 12 August 2026 (Art. 71)

Burden drivers

No burden drivers recorded on this provision.

No size threshold.

Source text

Verbatim

economic operators shall not provide or display labels, marks, symbols or inscriptions that are likely to mislead or confuse consumers or other end users with respect to the sustainability requirements for packaging

View source →