ADPF Submission: Clear food safety framework required for recycled plastics

ADPF has lodged a submission to Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) supporting the safe and practical use of recycled plastics in food contact packaging. The submission recognises the importance of increasing recycled content to support Australia’s circular economy, while emphasising that food safety must remain the overriding priority. It calls for nationally consistent guidance that provides industry with clear pathways for assessing recycled plastics used in food packaging, rather than relying solely on recycled content targets.

The submission recommends that FSANZ develop practical guidance on food contact safety, supplier assurance, traceability and the use of international evidence, while working with industry to build a shared evidence base that reduces duplication and supports consistent decision-making. It also calls for implementation timeframes that reflect the availability of food-grade recycled materials, testing capability and supply chain readiness. With clear food safety guardrails and practical implementation pathways, Australia can increase the use of recycled plastics in food packaging while maintaining consumer confidence, protecting market access and supporting domestic food manufacturing.

More: Read ADPF’s submission