Peru has proposed to the WTO new regulations to limit heavy metals in reusable plastic cutlery and tableware. The proposal also mandates technical and labeling standards for their manufacture, aligning with ISO standards on packaging, plastic recycling, and testing. The public consultation phase is open until October 28, 2024. Further details are available below.
Heavy Metal Restrictions
The proposal requires all reusable plastic utensils and tableware to meet specific standards for heavy metal content to ensure safety and environmental sustainability.
| Element | Concentration (mg/kg dry weight) |
| Sb (Antimony) | 50 |
| Ar (Argon) | 50 |
| Ba (Barium) | 100 |
| Cd (Cadmium) | 100 |
| Cr (Chromium) | 1000 |
| Pb (Lead) | 100 |
| Zn (Zinc) | 2000 |
| Se (Selenium) | 100 |
| Hg (Mercury) | 50 |
Materials and Recycled Content
The proposal requires components to be made of a single material, except for necessary additives, inks, adhesives, or fillers. Cutlery and tableware must be produced from recycled materials, with manufacturers keeping detailed records of these materials.
Recyclability Standards
Manufacturers and importers must prove product recyclability in line with NTP-ISO 18604:2020 and disclose the percentage of recyclable materials used, aiming to boost plastic recycling and reduce pollution.
Labeling Requirements
Packaging for reusable plastic cutlery and tableware must clearly state "Reusable" and "Recyclable" in Spanish, including manufacturer details, production date, polymers used, and recycled content. Non-compliant plastic straws will be banned as disposable.
Further Information
