NFU backs recycled packaging checks but warns farmers over costs

The NFU has backed tougher checks on recycled plastic packaging, but warned that farmers and growers must not be left carrying the cost or administrative burden.

The proposed changes to Plastic Packaging Tax (PPT) relief could affect dairy, horticulture and egg businesses that pack their own produce.

Under the plans, packaging containing recycled material would need mandatory certification before businesses could claim PPT relief.

The government says the measure is intended to prevent inaccurate or fraudulent claims for packaging that does not meet recycled-content requirements.

In its consultation response, the NFU supported efforts to improve the accuracy of recycled-content claims, particularly where packaging or information is supplied from overseas.

Members relying on foreign suppliers have raised concerns over the reliability of claims, difficulties obtaining missing information and whether packaging will continue to meet UK requirements.

The union also backed measures designed to protect food standards, but said any certification regime should work alongside the Food Standards Agency.

It stressed that food safety must remain of “paramount importance”.

The NFU said any new system should also work effectively across international supply chains and recognise equivalent overseas certification where it provides comparable assurance.

However, it warned that mandatory certification must not disrupt packaging supplies or leave primary producers facing additional costs.

Dairy farmers, growers and egg producers who pack their own products could be particularly affected if new certification and auditing requirements are introduced.

The NFU said farmers often have little control over packaging specifications or retail prices, leaving them poorly placed to absorb or pass on additional costs.

Producers are also already subject to numerous audits, inspections and assurance schemes, it said, meaning any new PPT requirements should make use of information businesses are already collecting wherever possible.

The union wants primary food producers to be exempt from certification and auditing costs, arguing that they have among the least control over packaging decisions within the supply chain.

It suggested compliance checks could instead be carried out elsewhere in the chain, allowing farmers and growers to demonstrate that packaging meets the rules without adding another layer of administration.

The NFU has also called on the government to consider how costs would be shared across the supply chain at a time when farm businesses continue to face pressure from higher input costs.

If mandatory measures increase the price of using recycled-content packaging, the union said the level of PPT relief should be increased to ensure recycled materials remain an attractive option.

It has urged HMRC to consider alternatives to compulsory certification, including existing voluntary schemes supported by clearer guidance and standardised testing.

The NFU has also suggested the government examine the EU's Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation when considering how a future system could operate.

If mandatory certification does go ahead, the union wants it introduced gradually over a minimum of 12 months.

It said a phased approach would give businesses enough time to adjust purchasing and auditing arrangements while reducing the risk of shortages in suitable packaging.

The NFU said it would not support mandatory certification unless primary producers were protected from the associated certification and auditing costs.

It is also seeking more evidence from HMRC about the scale and nature of problems with the current system before further requirements are imposed.

The union said any certification regime should ultimately be “necessary, proportionate and evidence based”.