Help your food business navigate packaging reforms
Date published:
Businesses across Northern Ireland's agri-food, manufacturing, retail and packaging sectors are being encouraged to attend a Packaging Policy Update Event at the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE). The conference is being held at Loughry Campus, Cookstown on Friday 13 November 2026 at 9:00 am.
The event follows the successful Packaging Policy Update conference held last year, where industry experts highlighted the significant changes emerging through Extended Producer Responsibility for packaging (pEPR), the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) and the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR).
Together, these legislative reforms represent the biggest transformation of packaging policy in decades and will have far-reaching implications for businesses involved in designing, purchasing, manufacturing or supplying packaged products.
Last year's event highlighted how packaging is increasingly being assessed not only on its ability to protect products, but also on its recyclability, reusability, recycled content and overall environmental impact. As legislation develops, businesses are facing new responsibilities, reporting requirements and potential costs associated with the packaging they place on the market.
The upcoming event will provide delegates with the latest policy developments and practical guidance on how to prepare for future obligations, including changes to packaging design, recyclability requirements, producer responsibility fees and the introduction of the Deposit Return Scheme.
Speaking ahead of the event, Peter Simpson, Head of Food Technology at CAFRE Loughry Campus, said: "The response to last year's event demonstrated the strong demand for clear, practical information on packaging legislation. Significant progress has been made since then, and businesses need to understand how these developments may affect their operations.
A significant addition to the event programme this year is the attendance of experts from the Food Standards Agency (FSA), who will provide an update on the developing legislative landscape surrounding Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) in food contact materials. Delegates will also receive guidance on the support available to help companies innovate, improve packaging sustainability and prepare for future legislative requirements.
The event offers an excellent opportunity to hear directly from policy experts, gain insights into future requirements and begin planning for the changes ahead."
With packaging regulations continuing to evolve, early preparation will be key. Businesses that understand the direction of travel and begin adapting now will be better placed to manage compliance, control costs and identify opportunities for innovation.
To book to attend this free event on Friday 13 November at CAFRE, Loughry Campus, visit the events section of the CAFRE website.
Notes to editors:
- Follow DAERA on X formerly called Twitter and Facebook.
- All media queries should be directed to the DAERA Press Office: pressoffice.group@daera-ni.gov.uk or telephone: 028 9016 3460.