REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) regulation aims to ensure a high level of protection of human health and the environment from the risks posed by chemicals; it requires companies to register chemicals used in their products with the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA). Enacted in 2006, it is continuously updated and affects all companies manufacturing, importing, using or placing chemicals on the European market if they manufacture or import one tonne or more per year of a substance. As of 2024, more substances are included in the candidate list, requiring more careful monitoring of chemical substances used in cookware coatings and materials. Businesses need to ensure compliance by proper registration and communication in the supply chain.

This regulation provides a harmonized legal framework for food contact materials and articles within the EU, ensuring that materials do not transfer harmful substances to food. Regular amendments and updates require continuous monitoring to ensure that cookware materials, coatings, and components meet safety standards and do not pose health risks. The regulation includes specific rules for plastics, ceramics, and other materials, ensuring they do not release harmful chemicals into food under normal or foreseeable conditions of use. Allinox must ensure that its cookware meets these standards to remain compliant and avoid recalls. The regulation went into effect in 2004 and is continuously updated to reflect new scientific findings and technological advancements. Cookware manufacturers must provide documentation that verifies compliance with migration limits and other relevant safety parameters. Updates in 2024 will focus on new substances and improved testing methods to assess material safety more comprehensively. The regulation affects all businesses that manufacture, import, or use food contact materials, imposing strict obligations and requiring ongoing monitoring and verification to ensure regulatory compliance and product safety in cookware sold in the EU market. Businesses must provide documentation that verifies compliance with migration limits and other relevant safety parameters, and the European Commission regularly updates the regulation to reflect new scientific findings and technological advancements, imposing strict obligations.

EPR schemes make producers responsible for the end-of-life management of their products. Various EU member states have implemented EPR schemes for packaging, electrical and electronic equipment (EEE), and batteries, requiring producers to finance the collection, sorting, and recycling of these items. These schemes aim to reduce waste, promote recycling, and encourage the design of more sustainable products. Allinox, as a cookware manufacturer, may be obligated to participate in these schemes, depending on the specific regulations in each country where it operates. EPR can influence product design to increase recyclability. Allinox needs to monitor and adapt to evolving EPR regulations to ensure compliance and minimize environmental impact. Cookware must be designed for easier disassembly and recycling. While not specific to cookware, the general principles apply, pushing companies towards greater environmental responsibility. Businesses are required to register with national EPR organizations, pay fees based on the quantity and type of products placed on the market, and provide data on product sales and end-of-life management. Non-compliance can lead to fines and other penalties. These schemes are continually evolving, with new regulations and targets being introduced to improve recycling rates and reduce waste. Manufacturers can influence product design and material choices to improve recyclability and reduce environmental impact.