The European Union aims to enhance packaging sustainability and reduce waste among member states, emphasizing the need to protect highly perishable products like fresh mushrooms. Starting January 1, 2030, certain single-use plastic packages, including those for unprocessed fruits and vegetables under 1.5 kg, will be banned. This regulation impacts mushroom packaging significantly. The Italian Mushroom Growers’ Association advocates for the continued use of plastic packaging to maintain mushroom freshness and quality, citing its unique protective needs. They propose increasing recycled materials in plastic films and seek exemptions from the new regulations until effective alternatives are found.

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