Coca-Cola, Nestlé and Danone have committed to changing the recycling claims on their plastic bottles sold in the European Union following discussions with the European Commission and the Consumer Protection Cooperation (CPC) network, the Commission announced on Thursday 22 October. The aim is to ensure fair and clear information that complies with EU consumer law.
The action, led by the Swedish and Hungarian consumer authorities, focuses in particular on the claim ‘100% recycled plastic bottle’. This will now have to make clear that the cap and label are excluded. Phrases such as ‘Recycle me again’ will be replaced by ‘Recycle me’ to avoid suggesting that the bottle had already been recycled before purchase.
More broadly, the companies must ensure that the labelling and promotion of their products do not imply greater environmental benefits than those actually achieved.
Coca-Cola and Nestlé have already implemented some of these commitments, particularly online. National authorities will monitor their implementation and may take action in the event of a breach. (Original version in French by Justine Manaud)