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EmpCo is coming

EmpCo is coming. What it means for egg packaging.

From September 2026, new EU rules will affect how environmental claims, wording and visuals are used on egg packaging across Europe. Are you ready for it?

Published 01 July 2026

EmpCo is designed to prevent consumers from being misled by unclear, unsubstantiated or exaggerated sustainability claims and to combat greenwashing. It sets new rules for how sustainability-related messages can be communicated to end consumers, making packaging, labels and on-pack communication more important than ever. As a result, several visible elements of egg packaging may need to be reviewed and changed. We therefore recommend preparing well in advance and assessing whether your packaging communication complies with the new requirements.

What is the EmpCo regulation?

The Empowering Consumers for the Green Transition Directive (EmpCo) is an EU regulation designed to strengthen consumer protection and prevent misleading environmental claims. It introduces clearer rules for sustainability related statements used in business to consumer communication, including consumer-facing packaging, labels and marketing materials. EmpCo will apply from 27 September 2026.

What does EmpCo change?

What you communicate on pack matters more than ever

EmpCo aims to prevent misleading environmental claims and strengthen consumer trust. For egg packaging, this puts the focus on how claims, visuals and messages are presented on-pack – and whether they are clear, specific and transparent for end consumers.

Responsibilities for packaging communication

Hartmann manufactures and supplies packaging solutions. The content printed on packaging – including wording, claims and visual elements – is defined and approved by the customer placing the products on the market.

Hartmann does not provide legal advice or assess customer artwork for regulatory compliance. Responsibility for compliance with applicable laws and regulations lies with the customer.

Reviewing packaging takes time – even for small changes

Existing packaging designs may need to be reviewed in light of EmpCo. Adjusting wording, visuals or labels requires planning, and full redesigns require even more lead time – especially across multiple markets.

Starting early helps maintain flexibility and avoid last-minute changes. Please check the messages and graphics on your egg packaging and let us know well in advance if you wish to change your label or direct printing.

Further guidance

For further guidance on environmental claims and consumer communication, please refer to official EU resources:

Learn more about European Commission - Unfair Commercial Practices guidance

Read the full EmpCo Directive (EU 2024/825)

Find more about Green Claims

Questions & Answers