Ketchup sachets to be BANNED in Europe from this summer, as EU cracks down on single-use condiments
Restaurants across Europe will no longer be able to provide single-use sachets of condiments such as ketchup and mayonnaise.The new rule, which will come into force from August 2026, will be rolled out across the EU.Under the EU regulation 2025/40, the catering sector will no longer be able to use single-use plastic packaging, in order to reduce waste. This extends to packaging for condiments, preserves, sauces, coffee creamer, sugar, and seasoning.Instead, restaurants and bars will need to provide condiments in reusable containers, such as bottles. The rule states: 'It is necessary to establish quantitative re-use targets on packaging in sectors which have been assessed as having the greatest potential for packaging waste reduction, namely food and beverages for take-away.'It adds: 'Consumers should always have the option to purchase food and beverages for take-away in reusable or their own containers under conditions that are no less favourable than those applicable to food and beverages offered in single-use packaging.'There are, however, exceptions to the rule. Single-use plastic sachets for condiments such as ketchup will no longer be allowed You will need to get your fill of ketchup and mayo from reusable containersIf this packaging is provided 'together with take-away ready-prepared food intended for immediate consumption without the need of any further preparation,' sachets can be used.Plus, it is permitted in cases where it helps to 'ensure safety and hygiene in establishments where there is a medical requirement for individualised care.'This includes, for instance, hospitals, clinics or nursing homes.It comes as part of an overall EU strategy to reduce plastic waste across the continent. The new rules have been controversial among travellers, with many taking to social media to share their thoughts.One Facebook user wrote: 'Perfect!! Can’t stand those sachets… can never get them open!!'Another agreed, writing: 'Poxy things to open anyway.'A different user wrote on X: 'Good, those sachets are a mess to use and super wasteful.'Others were less enthused.One critic added: 'So... dirty, sticky dispensers it is,' with another agreeing: 'Shared ketchup bottles are always sticky with 50 strangers' fingerprints on them.'Another chimed in on X: 'Europe is facing the biggest migration crisis in centuries yet all they care about are ketchup bags and paper straws. They make us a joke of a continent.'
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Ketchup sachets to be BANNED in Europe from this summer, as EU cracks down on single-use condiments
