Türkiye Moves to Restrict Bisphenols in Food Contact Materials, Aligning with EU Standards

Türkiye has taken a significant step towards enhancing food safety and consumer protection by notifying the World Trade Organization (WTO) of its draft regulations concerning bisphenol A (BPA) and other hazardous bisphenols and bisphenol derivatives. These substances are commonly found in certain food contact materials (FCMs) and articles, and their restriction is set to impact international trade, according to SGS.

The draft communiqués, issued by Türkiye’s Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry and announced on April 8, 2026, demonstrate a clear intent to harmonize with established international standards. Notably, these proposed regulations are largely aligned with European Regulation (EU) 2024/3190. This alignment with EU standards is a crucial development for businesses engaged in the production and trade of FCMs, as it suggests a move towards a more unified regulatory landscape across the region.

The primary objective of these draft regulations is to restrict the use of BPA and other specified bisphenols in materials that come into direct or indirect contact with food. This measure is designed to safeguard public health by limiting consumer exposure to potentially harmful chemicals. For manufacturers and exporters of FCMs, including packaging, containers, and utensils, this means a thorough review of their product formulations and supply chains will be necessary to ensure compliance with Türkiye’s forthcoming requirements.

The implications for international trade are substantial. Companies exporting food contact materials and articles to Türkiye will need to adapt their manufacturing processes and material sourcing to meet the new restrictions. The harmonization with EU Regulation 2024/3190 may simplify compliance for some businesses already adhering to European standards, but it will necessitate adjustments for others. This regulatory shift underscores a global trend towards stricter controls on chemical substances in consumer products, particularly those that interact with food, reinforcing the importance of proactive compliance and robust material testing for all stakeholders in the international trade of FCMs.