EU's 2028 Reusable Packaging Rule Spurs Cleaning Capacity Debate

The European Union's upcoming regulation, set to take effect in 2028, requiring the use of reusable packaging for food services, is generating significant debate around cleaning capacity.

BMI Korea, an engineering firm with 30 years of experience in high-pressure cleaning solutions in Korea, argues that the bottleneck is not in collection, but in the washing process. The regulation mandates that restaurants and other food service providers utilize reusable containers for takeout and dine-in services, substantially increasing the need for cleaning.

Industry observers suggest that current cleaning services may not be adequate to meet the anticipated demand. This is particularly concerning for areas with a high density of food establishments, such as major EU cities. The question of "who will wash the cups" is becoming a critical point as authorities and businesses prepare for the regulation's implementation.

BMI Korea posits that the solution lies in more efficient and scalable high-pressure washing and sanitization systems capable of handling large volumes of containers quickly and hygienically. While the company has developed relevant technologies, substantial investment and infrastructure development are deemed necessary to address this growing need.

The regulation's primary aim is to reduce waste and environmental impact from single-use packaging. However, if cleaning capacity does not keep pace, the regulation's environmental goals could be jeopardized, leading to logistical and financial challenges for the food service industry.