Three Labeling and Packaging Regulations Affecting the EU in 2026

With three major regulatory updates on the horizon, businesses operating in or exporting to the EU must act now to ensure continued compliance. Here is everything you need to know to stay ahead of the curve.

A Fresh Look at Plant Protection Product Labeling for Regulation 547/2011

Since 2011, Regulation 547/2011 set the standard for pesticide labeling in the EU. However, as of January 1, 2026, new rules have officially taken effect, modernizing how safety and environmental information is presented to users.
 

How the 547/2011 Regulation Update Affects Product Packaging and Labeling:

The European Commission has replaced the old standards with a new framework designed to enhance digital accessibility and sustainability. These requirements are no longer "proposed"—they are the current legal mandate for products entering the EU market.

The updated regulations mandate a shift toward digital labeling (via QR codes) and the introduction of a specific bee hazard pictogram to protect pollinators. Labels now feature standardized color-coding for hazard levels and clearer risk mitigation phrases for human health. Additionally, products under parallel trade permits face stricter labeling controls to ensure traceability. While a transition period exists for older stock, all new authorizations must comply with these 2026 standards immediately.

You can find out more about the updates to regulation 547/2011 here.

Revised Classification, Labelling, and Packaging (CLP) Regulation

The EU CLP Regulation, which began rolling out in December 2024, marks a milestone in the EU’s commitment to chemical safety and transparency. 
 

How the EU CLP Regulation Affects Product Packaging and Labeling:

From 2025 onwards, the updated CLP Regulation introduces new hazard classifications for endocrine disruptors, PBT/vPvB, and PMT/vPvM substances, requiring updated labels and safety data sheets. Stricter labeling and packaging rules will enhance readability, child safety, and accessibility. 

Companies must review product classifications and update poison center notifications ahead of compliance deadlines: January 1, 2026, for substances and May 1, 2028, for mixtures. In order to meet these deadlines, it's crucial that businesses  start preparations now to ensure smooth compliance.

The CLP revisions align with the United Nations’ Globally Harmonized System (GHS) and will strengthen the EU’s internal market for chemicals.

You can find more information about the EU CLP regulation in our recent blog here.

Focusing on Sustainability with the New Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR)

Since entering into force on February 11, 2025, the PPWR has fundamentally redefined sustainability for businesses manufacturing or selling products in the EU. We are now in the critical final countdown toward the first major application deadline.

How the New Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation Affects Product Packaging and Labeling:

By August 12, 2026, businesses must comply with several immediate mandates. Most notably, a strict ban on PFAS (forever chemicals) in food-contact packaging takes effect, with no grace period for existing non-compliant stock. Additionally, all packaging must now be accompanied by an EU Declaration of Conformity to ensure market access.

Standardized harmonized labels—featuring mandatory pictograms for material composition and sorting instructions—are currently being phased in to replace fragmented national systems. While the 70% recyclability mandate and minimum recycled content targets (targeting 30%+ for most plastics) do not become legally binding until January 1, 2030, the design-for-recycling (DfR) phase must begin now to avoid costly portfolio overhauls. 

Early alignment with these 2026 milestones is essential to avoid market rejection and penalties. You can find out more about the new PPWR here, and our labeling experts at Kallik will soon be providing further guidance to help ensure a smooth transition as this regulation comes into effect.

How To Ensure Label and Artwork Compliance in 2026

With several new labeling requirements on the horizon, you might be wondering where to start. The threat of non-compliance and the thought of months (or even years!) of hefty fees from third part organizations to guide you through these changes has probably got you wondering where to start. Well, why not speak to Kallik? Our labeling and artwork management experts are ready to help. With the ability to change 10,000 labels in as little as 14 days with the help of our automated tools and innovative technology, our end-to-end system makes it easier than ever to get ahead on new regulations. 

With Kallik's Gartner-recommended software you can:

• Take advantage of our AI migration technology
• Access the platform from anywhere in the world via your browser
• Always have the latest version of our software with real-time updates
• Expereince 24/7 365 support from a team of experts
• Complete complicated tasks with one click thanks to innovative, automation features
• Prioritize sustainability and consumer safety with minimal manual input, minimizing errors

Your Partner for Compliance and Beyond

Preparing for these regulatory changes doesn’t have to be daunting. By adopting a platform that automates processes, supports digital labeling, and provides expert guidance, your business can turn compliance into a competitive advantage.

Don’t wait until it's too late to act. Start preparing now to ensure your labels are not only compliant but also a reflection of your commitment to safety, sustainability, and innovation. Want to know more? Speak to our labeling and artwork experts here, or book a demo here.