Peru Attempts to Control Heavy Metals in Reusable Plastic Products

Peru has introduced new regulations to the WTO aimed at limiting heavy metals in reusable plastic cutlery and tableware. The proposal also establishes technical and labelling standards for their production, ensuring alignment with ISO standards on packaging, plastic recycling, and testing. More information can be found below.

Heavy Metal Restrictions

The proposal mandates that all reusable plastic utensils and tableware comply with specific standards for heavy metal content to ensure safety and promote environmental sustainability materials and Recycled Content.

The proposal stipulates that components must consist of a single material, with exceptions for necessary additives, inks, adhesives, or fillers. Additionally, cutlery and tableware must be manufactured from recycled materials, and producers are required to maintain comprehensive records of these materials.

Recyclability Standards

Manufacturers and importers must demonstrate that their products are recyclable in accordance with NTP-ISO 18604:2020 and disclose the percentage of recyclable materials used, with the goal of enhancing plastic recycling efforts and reducing pollution.

Labelling Requirements

Packaging for reusable plastic cutlery and tableware must prominently display the terms “Reusable” and “Recyclable” in Spanish. It should also include information about the manufacturer, production date, types of polymers used, and the proportion of recycled content. Additionally, non-compliant plastic straws will be prohibited from being sold as disposable items.