Packaging Strategy Planning 2026: Checklist for Canned Goods Brands

In 2026, EU canned-food brands must overhaul their packaging plans to meet ambitious regulatory and market demands. The EU’s new Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) takes effect on 12 August 2026[11], imposing strict design, recyclability and labeling rules. At the same time, extended producer responsibility (EPR) rules will require detailed packaging data reporting from 2026 onwards, and the EU has banned BPA in can coatings by July 2026[29]. Meanwhile, consumers and retailers favor recyclable metal cans, and the European canned foods market is sizeable – roughly US$8.7 billion in 2024[27] and growing steadily. For owners, marketers and procurement teams, packaging strategy planning 2026 must balance cost efficiency with compliance. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the regulatory landscape, key selection criteria for materials and suppliers, and an implementation roadmap (including GS1 2D barcode adoption) to ensure your canned goods packaging is ready by 2026.

Executive Summary: EU canned goods producers face sweeping packaging changes by 2026 (new PPWR, EPR data and BPA bans). Key concerns include ensuring recyclability, sourcing BPA-/PFAS-free can coatings, registering for EPR, and preparing digital labels (GS1 2D codes) for traceability. We summarize the criteria for selecting compliant can suppliers and materials (cost, design, recyclability, documentation) and lay out a step-by-step compliance roadmap. By following the action checklist below, brands can align their packaging strategy with EU law and market trends.

Market and Regulatory Overview

Europe’s metal packaging market is large and growing. For example, the Europe metal packaging industry (all metal container types) was ~US$41 billion in 2025[28], and metal cans (food and beverage) benefit from rising demand for convenience foods and sustainability. The European food cans market itself was about $8.7 billion in 2024[27] and is projected to see steady growth. Metal cans have a strong sustainability story: of all packaging types, metal enjoys the highest recycling rates in Europe[21]. In 2022 Europe recycled ~80.5% of steel packaging[5] and about 76% of aluminium beverage cans in 2023[4] (beverage can data, which is relevant to similar formats). These high recycling rates give metal cans a “circular economy” advantage[21][12].

Canned goods brands typically use steel or (less often) aluminium cans. Steel cans are robust and widely recyclable; aluminium cans are lighter and also recyclable, though often cost more. In practice both materials achieve excellent recycling rates in the EU (steel ~80%, aluminium ~75%)[5][4], making them attractive for eco-friendly packaging. Table 1 (below) compares steel and aluminium for food cans on key attributes:

Sources: industry data and recyclability reports[5][4]. Both metals are “infinitely recyclable,” so material choice can be guided by cost and functionality (e.g. can size, shape) more than recyclability concerns.

Regulatory drivers. The EU’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR, Reg. 2025/40) is the top priority for 2026 planning[11][6]. It replaces the old directive and applies uniformly across the EU from 12 August 2026[11][6]. Key PPWR provisions relevant to canned goods include:
– Design & Volume Minimization: All packaging must be designed to minimize weight and volume while retaining function[10]. Marketing-driven excess (double walls, false bottoms) is prohibited[10]. Cans and their carton cases should avoid >50% empty space – for example, by using the smallest e-commerce/shipping boxes needed[20].
– Recyclability: By 2030 packaging must meet a minimum recyclability grade (≥70% recyclability, Grade C, moving to ≥80% by 2038)[12]. Metal cans already exceed these targets. Brands should nonetheless document that their cans meet recyclability standards (materials, coatings, inks are separable and recyclable).
– Substance Restrictions: Certain hazardous substances are banned. Notably, bisphenols (like BPA) in food-contact varnishes and coatings are banned from 20 July 2026[7], with limited exceptions (extended to Jan 2028 on can exterior coatings). Canned goods manufacturers must ensure can lining and coatings comply (BPA-free alternatives, as outlined in EU Reg. 2024/3190)[7]. Similarly, PFAS (per-/polyfluoroalkyl substances) in food-contact packaging are banned from Aug 2026[6][24], affecting greaseproof liners or labels if any. (Most metal cans do not use PFAS, but any associated plastic or paper packaging should be audited.)
– Producer Responsibility & Data: From Aug 2026, all “producers” of packaging (including importers and brand owners who pack goods) must register in national registers and comply with EPR obligations[6][15]. This means paying fees to cover collection/recycling of the cans and related packaging. Crucially, producers must also report detailed data on packaging placed on the market: e.g. tonnages by material, by format. An EU implementing act (coming Feb 2026) will specify data schemas[15]. Companies should prepare now by setting up systems to track weights and material breakdown of all packaging (cans and associated labels, cartons etc). National registers will be harmonized, so plan to register in every EU country where your products are sold[23].
– Documentation: Manufacturers of packaging must create and keep technical documentation and an EU Declaration of Conformity (DoC) stating compliance with PPWR requirements[8]. This EU DoC (analogous to CE marking) and relevant test/data must be kept for 5 years (10 for reusable packaging)[8]. Brand owners and distributors will need to show they have received such declarations from their packaging suppliers. Integrate DoC preparation into your design process now.

By addressing these regulatory rules, canned goods brands turn compliance into opportunity. For instance, PPWR requires all packaging be recyclable by design[22], reinforcing the choice of metal cans. Brands that document and publicize recyclability and recycled content (in plastic collars or labels) can enhance their eco-credentials. In short, packaging strategy planning 2026 must start with PPWR compliance (see Fig. 1 for timeline) and then layer on cost and market factors.

Selection Criteria: Materials, Design and Suppliers

When revising packaging, consider a structured evaluation along these criteria:

• Compliance & Eco-Design: Ensure packaging meets PPWR “design for recycling” guidelines. Cans should use minimal material (no extra layers)[10]. If a solution currently uses plastic film (e.g. on-cap seals, labels), confirm it is easily separable. Avoid multi-material laminates on cans if they impede recycling. Any inks or coatings must be EU-approved (REACH-compliant, no banned substances). As noted above, BPA-free linings are mandatory by mid-2026[7], so vet coatings suppliers for transition plans. Similarly, require PFAS-free certification for any plastic components, even if PFAS are unlikely in metal cans.
• Supplier Documentation: Select suppliers who provide full compliance data. This includes a signed EU Declaration of Conformity for the packaging components[8], and material safety documentation. For example, if a can supplier paints lids with an epoxy lining, they should declare BPA-free status. Your labeling supplier must provide material composition and recyclability info (and proof they are PFAS-free) so you can fulfill EU record-keeping. If a supplier cannot provide these certifications, you risk product hold-up. (As one compliance guide warns: lacking a DoC, “the customer…can’t legally sell the product”.)[1]. Put these requirements into procurement contracts.
• Material Choice & Cost: Compare steel vs aluminium cans. Steel cans are cheaper per weight and have long product life (strong barrier), but heavier (higher transport/EPR cost). Aluminium cans are lightweight and corrosion-resistant but cost more per unit. See Table 1. Both materials are highly recyclable[21][5], which aligns with PPWR. Consider total cost: include raw-material volatility (steel and aluminum prices can fluctuate with global demand) and coating costs (BPA-free alternatives may be pricier). Also factor in afterlife: e.g. aluminium cans often command higher scrap value.
• Production & Contracting: Your packaging strategy should lock in supply reliability. Enter multi-year contracts with major can manufacturers (e.g. Ardagh, Ball, Crown, etc.) to secure capacity and volume discounts. Assess partners on lead times, quality control (branded graphics are vital for marketing), and proximity (local EU suppliers can lower shipping emissions). Also consider involving a third-party producer responsibility organisation (PRO) for EPR. If your brand expands into new EU markets, ensure each national PRO covers you. Negotiate packaging procurement contracts that explicitly include provisions for compliance support (e.g. updating materials when laws change) and data sharing, since PPWR will require rapid data updates.
• Packaging System:Beyond the can itself, look at secondary and tertiary packaging. For example, cardboard shipping boxes should be right-sized (PPWR allows maximum 40% void space)[20]. If you use multi-packs or trays, design them to minimize waste. Reusable crates or pallets can be explored under PPWR’s reuse incentives – large brands might pilot returnable containers with retailers (PPWR encourages 10% reuse by 2030).

In evaluation, create a comparison matrix of packaging options. Include factors like material weight (kg per can), cost per thousand, recyclability (yes/no, and recycling rate), design change needed, supplier location, current EPR cost (€/ton), and so forth. Use this to rank alternatives. For instance, if switching from steel to aluminium cans gives 25% weight savings (thus lower EPR fees) but adds 10% material cost, the net effect on margins should be weighed. Also consider timeline: if your major brand already uses steel cans with a qualified supplier, a small design tweak (coating swap) may be easier than full material change.

Tables or scorecards can help: for example, a table listing Steel vs Aluminium vs Glass vs Plastic (as hypothetical alternatives) on key attributes (see Table 2). Glass and plastic are generally not the primary focus for canned foods, but alternatives could include retortable pouches—a long shot here). Primary focus is comparing steel vs aluminium, with possible mention of multilaminate boards (e.g. aseptic cartons) as a low-likelihood alternative.

Ref: online metal packaging guides, industry data.

Use this kind of decision framework to score your options on “Compliance Risk” (fail/pass for each PPWR mandate) and “Business Criteria” (cost, appearance, weight).

Digital Labelling & Data Readiness GS1

2D Codes New EU rules will require two-dimensional barcodes (QR/DataMatrix) on packaging by 2027[3]. These GS1 2D barcodes serve as digital labels containing machine-readable info about the pack. Under PPWR, the QR code on each package must link to data such as material composition, recyclability grade, refill/reuse instructions, and recycled-polymer content[3]. In practice, canned goods brands should prepare to print or affix a GS1 Digital Link QR code or DataMatrix on each can (or group pack). This allows retailers’ scanners and consumers’ apps to read detailed info beyond the old EAN barcode.

Key points on 2D codes:
– The EU is aligning with GS1’s Sunrise 2027 initiative, which means by end-2027 all Point-of-Sale systems in Europe should read 2D GTIN codes[14]. After 2028, brands could switch exclusively to 2D codes if desired. However, 1D barcodes will still be valid, as dual coding is allowed during the transition[14]. In summary, plan to adopt GS1 DataMatrix (square) or QR codes by Jan 2028 at the latest.
– Benefits: 2D codes carry far more data (batch numbers, expiry, etc.)[19]. This boosts supply chain transparency (faster recalls if needed) and consumer engagement (scan code to see recycling tips or provenance). It also ties into the future Digital Product Passport concept, improving waste sorting and circularity.
– Implementation: Embedding 2D codes on metal surfaces requires high-contrast, high-resolution printing. If cans are opaque, 2D codes can be printed directly (with e.g. continuous inkjet) in black on the metal. For transparent shrink labels or cap-seals, the code must have a white background (as shown by food industry examples)[18]. Weigh technical options: some printers struggle with 2D dot density, so test proofing with your supplier. (On high-speed lines, Continuous Inkjet or Laser can handle GS1 2D well, as industry sources note.)[17]
– Data Management: In parallel, you must prepare IT systems for the required packaging data. EU authorities will expect precise data on each packaging SKU (indeed, one guide warns that a single product with 8 components may need 200 data points reported)[16]. Start by cataloging your packaging components (primary can, lid, label, box, pallet, etc.) and defining who will supply each data field. For example, a can supplier should provide material weight, resin type, and coating compositions. A packaging designer should assign recyclability grades per draft criteria. Such data will be submitted to national systems (some countries already had EPR data portals) likely on an annual basis. Getting this right early (before PPWR’s implementing act is finalised) reduces last-minute risk[15].

Implementation Roadmap

Planning time is now. Below is a high-level timeline to guide your 2026 packaging strategy implementation (Table 2). Each entry can be expanded into project tasks:

Table 2. Timeline and Action Plan for EU Packaging Compliance (Canned Goods)

This roadmap should be used to set project milestones. Key immediate steps are: (a) Review and document your current packaging portfolio (weights, components, suppliers); (b) Remedy any noncompliance (e.g. swap out banned materials); and (c) Upgrade data/IT systems to capture and submit packaging metrics. Don’t wait until mid-2026 – lead times for new can designs or printer upgrades (for 2D codes) can be several months.

Key Takeaways

• Plan for PPWR now: From 12 August 2026 new EU packaging rules are mandatory[11]. Ensure can packaging is lightweight, has ≤50% void (cartons), and is fully recyclable by design[10][9].
• Compliance documentation: Obtain an EU Declaration of Conformity for each can type and keep technical files (materials, tests) for 5+ years[8]. Request supplier Declarations (PFAS-free, BPA-free) to populate these docs.
• Material safety: EU bans BPA in food-contact coatings (July 2026)[7] and PFAS in any food-contact packaging (Aug 2026)[6]. Verify all can linings and inks comply. Use this as an opportunity to market “BPA-free” labels.
• Recyclability advantage: Metal cans are already highly recyclable (steel ~80.5%, aluminium ~76%)[5][4]. Highlight this in marketing and use it to negotiate EPR fee rebates (some PROs modulate fees by sustainability factors).
• Extended Producer Responsibility: Register in each relevant EU country and be ready to report 2026 packaging volumes and material mix. Work with a PRO to submit these data. Good design (lighter, mono-material) may reduce future EPR fees.
• Digital labeling: By 2027, all packaging must carry a GS1 2D data matrix or QR code with composition and recycling info[3]. Start coding your cans now. 2D codes also improve supply chain traceability and enable “digital product passports”.
• Supplier partnerships: Choose packaging suppliers who are ready to comply with PPWR data and labeling demands. Failure to provide recyclability grades, recycled-content certificates or a valid DoC will cost business[2][1].
• Action checklist: Create a cross-functional team (sourcing, R&D, compliance) to tick off these tasks: audit existing cans; train staff on PPWR; update purchasing contracts; test 2D printers; plan artwork revamps; pilot recyclable packaging. Use our Implementation Roadmap (Table 2) as a timeline guide.

References

[1]. What PPWR & EPR Mean for Packaging Suppliers | Compliance Guide 2026 | Circulate – https://circulatepack.com/knowledge-hub/ppwr-epr-for-suppliers#:~:text=If%20you%20don%27t%20provide

[2]. What PPWR & EPR Mean for Packaging Suppliers | Compliance Guide 2026 | Circulate – https://circulatepack.com/knowledge-hub/ppwr-epr-for-suppliers#:~:text=Recyclability%20grade

[3]. PPWR 2026 Deadline: EU Packaging Compliance Guide | Topcentral – https://www.itopcentral.com/ppwr-2026-deadline-act-now-or-lose-eu-access/#:~:text=Digital%20Labelling%20%E2%80%94%20QR%20codes,to%20accommodate%20digital%20data%20carriers

[4]. Aluminium Europe and Metal Packaging Europe report 76% recycling rate for aluminium cans | Article | Packaging Europe – https://packagingeurope.com/news/aluminium-europe-and-metal-packaging-europe-report-76-recycling-rate-for-aluminium-cans/13934.article#:~:text=European%20Aluminium%20,7%20million%20tonnes%20of%20CO2

[5] www.letsrecycle.com – https://www.letsrecycle.com/news/80-5-of-eu-steel-packaging-recycled-in-2022/#:~:text=New%20figures%20published%20by%20Steel,was%20%E2%80%9Creally%20recycled%E2%80%9D%20in%202022

[6]. PPWR 2026 Deadline: EU Packaging Compliance Guide | Topcentral – https://www.itopcentral.com/ppwr-2026-deadline-act-now-or-lose-eu-access/#:~:text=The%20PPWR%20entered%20into%20force,and%20enforceable%20across%20the%20EU

[7]. Ban on bisphenol A (BPA) in food packaging AGRINFO Platform – https://agrinfo.eu/book-of-reports/ban-on-bisphenol-a-bpa-in-food-packaging/#:~:text=Ban%20on%20BPA%20and%20requirements,for%20hazardous%20bisphenols

[8] eur-lex.europa.eu – https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/AUTO/?qid=1762126334157&rid=1&uri=CELEX%3A32025R0040#:~:text=1,to%2012%20has%20been%20demonstrated

[9] eur-lex.europa.eu – https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/AUTO/?uri=LEGISSUM%3A4806724#:~:text=%2A%20achieve%20a%2065%20,they%20already%20reach%20a%20high

[10] eur-lex.europa.eu – https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/AUTO/?uri=LEGISSUM%3A4806724#:~:text=,by%20design%20rights%20or%20trademarks

[11] eur-lex.europa.eu – https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/AUTO/?uri=LEGISSUM%3A4806724#:~:text=FROM%20WHEN%20DOES%20THE%20REGULATION,APPLY

[12] www.letsrecycle.com – https://www.letsrecycle.com/news/80-5-of-eu-steel-packaging-recycled-in-2022/#:~:text=%E2%80%9CThe%20three%20grades%20of%20defined,%E2%80%9D

[13]. PPWR 2026 Deadline: EU Packaging Compliance Guide | Topcentral – https://www.itopcentral.com/ppwr-2026-deadline-act-now-or-lose-eu-access/#:~:text=2028

[14] 2D Migration, also known as GS1 Sunrise 2027: The facts about printing 2D codes efficiently and with value – Connecting the world of food packaging – https://foodpackagingnetwork.com/2d-migration-also-known-as-gs1-sunrise-2027-the-facts-about-printing-2d-codes-efficiently-and-with-value/#:~:text=Regulations%20and%20Timelines%3A%20clarity%20is,1D%20barcodes%20and%202D%20codes

[15]. PPWR 2026 Understanding the Implementing Act – Reverse Logistics Group – https://rev-log.com/ppwr-2026-understanding-the-implementing-act/#:~:text=Why%20February%202026%20Matters

[16]. What PPWR & EPR Mean for Packaging Suppliers | Compliance Guide 2026 | Circulate – https://circulatepack.com/knowledge-hub/ppwr-epr-for-suppliers#:~:text=See%20the%20Data%20Behind%20One,Product

[17] 2D Migration, also known as GS1 Sunrise 2027: The facts about printing 2D codes efficiently and with value – Connecting the world of food packaging – https://foodpackagingnetwork.com/2d-migration-also-known-as-gs1-sunrise-2027-the-facts-about-printing-2d-codes-efficiently-and-with-value/#:~:text=2D%20barcodes%20are%20made%20up,however%2C%20fills%20the%20module%20completely

[18] 2D Migration, also known as GS1 Sunrise 2027: The facts about printing 2D codes efficiently and with value – Connecting the world of food packaging – https://foodpackagingnetwork.com/2d-migration-also-known-as-gs1-sunrise-2027-the-facts-about-printing-2d-codes-efficiently-and-with-value/#:~:text=For%20direct%20printing%20on%20transparent,the%20GS1%20DataMatrix%20code%20itself

[19] 2D Migration, also known as GS1 Sunrise 2027: The facts about printing 2D codes efficiently and with value – Connecting the world of food packaging – https://foodpackagingnetwork.com/2d-migration-also-known-as-gs1-sunrise-2027-the-facts-about-printing-2d-codes-efficiently-and-with-value/#:~:text=Traditional%201D%20barcodes%20have%20been,to%20scan%20from%20any%20angle

[20]. PPWR 2026 Deadline: EU Packaging Compliance Guide | Topcentral – https://www.itopcentral.com/ppwr-2026-deadline-act-now-or-lose-eu-access/#:~:text=Obligation%202%20%E2%80%94%20Packaging%20Design,Void%20Fill

[21]. Europe Metal Packaging Market Size & Growth to 2030 – https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/europe-metal-packaging-market#:~:text=The%20recyclability%20benefit%20offered%20by,and%20steel%20packaging%20around%2083

[22] eur-lex.europa.eu – https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/AUTO/?uri=LEGISSUM%3A4806724#:~:text=,scale%20enters%20into%20force%20in

[23]. PPWR 2026 Understanding the Implementing Act – Reverse Logistics Group – https://rev-log.com/ppwr-2026-understanding-the-implementing-act/#:~:text=Harmonization%20Across%20Member%20States

[24]. PPWR 2026 Deadline: EU Packaging Compliance Guide | Topcentral – https://www.itopcentral.com/ppwr-2026-deadline-act-now-or-lose-eu-access/#:~:text=Obligation%203%20%E2%80%94%20PFAS%20Ban,Contact%20Packaging

[25]. Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for Packaging 2025/26: A Comprehensive Guide for EU & UK Businesses | SustainZone Blog – https://sustainzone.earth/blog/extended-producer-responsibility-epr-for-packaging-2025-26-a-comprehensive-guide-for-eu-uk-businesses#:~:text=Extended%20Producer%20Responsibility%20,The

[26]. Feature-Aluminum Steel | August 2024 | Packaging Strategies – https://digitaledition.packagingstrategies.com/august-2024/feature-aluminum-steel/#:~:text=Independently%20verified%20figures%20published%20by,four%20years%20ahead%20of%20schedule

[27]. Europe Food Cans Market Forecast Report and Company – https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2025/05/15/3082375/28124/en/Europe-Food-Cans-Market-Forecast-Report-and-Company-Analysis-2025-2033-Featuring-Ardagh-Ball-Can-Pack-CPMC-Crown-Nestle-Zwanenberg-Silgan-Lucky-Star-and-Sarten.html#:~:text=The%20Europe%20Food%20Cans%20Market%2C,free

[28]. Europe Metal Packaging Market Size & Growth to 2030 – https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/europe-metal-packaging-market#:~:text=The%20Europe%20Metal%20Packaging%20Market,15%20Billion%20by%202030

[29]. Ban on bisphenol A (BPA) in food packaging – AGRINFO Platform – https://agrinfo.eu/book-of-reports/ban-on-bisphenol-a-bpa-in-food-packaging/#:~:text=Since%2020%20January%202025%2C%20operators,one%20from%20their%20packaging%20suppliers