The regulatory deadline
The EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) sets a binding requirement for certain single-use plastic beverage containers: caps and lids must remain attached to the container during use. For spout pouches, this means the spout cap must be tethered to the pouch body. The deadline for compliance is 12 August 2026. After this date, covered containers placed on the EU market must meet the tethered cap design. The rule applies to beverage containers up to three litres, including those made partly from plastic. Spout pouches for liquid foods fall within scope if they are single-use and plastic-based.
The PPWR replaces the Single-Use Plastics (SUP) Directive and expands the scope of tethered cap requirements. Unlike the SUP Directive, which covered only beverage containers, the PPWR applies to all packaging placed on the EU market, with specific design rules for certain formats. For spout pouches, the key obligation is the tethered cap. Manufacturers and brand owners must ensure their packaging complies before the deadline. Non-compliant products risk being denied market access.
What counts as a tethered cap
A tethered cap is a closure that stays physically connected to the spout during the product's intended use. It can be a one-piece design where the cap and spout are moulded together, or a two-piece design with a connecting ring or strap. The connection must be strong enough to keep the cap attached when the consumer opens and closes the pouch. The cap must also allow the container to be resealed. EN 17665 provides the test methods for verifying tethered cap compliance. This standard specifies mechanical tests, including pull force and torque, to ensure the cap remains attached throughout the product's lifetime.
For spout pouches, common tethered cap designs include a hinged cap that flips open but stays attached, and a screw cap with a retaining ring that keeps the cap connected to the spout. Both must pass EN 17665 testing. The standard also covers requirements for the cap's ability to be reopened and reclosed without breaking the tether. Brands should request test reports from their packaging supplier to confirm compliance.
Material and design implications
Tethered caps affect the choice of spout and cap materials. The spout and cap are typically made from polypropylene (PP) or polyethylene (PE). For recyclability, mono-material PE or PP structures are preferred. Clover Packaging offers spout pouches with mono-material PE and PP recyclable options, as well as conventional laminates like PET/AL/PE and PET/NY/PE. The tether must be compatible with the pouch material and the filling process. A one-piece spout and cap design can simplify assembly and reduce the risk of tether failure. For liquid foods, the spout must also provide an adequate barrier to oxygen and moisture.
The pouch structure itself may need adjustment to accommodate the tethered spout. For example, the spout seal area must be strong enough to withstand the pull force of the tether. The cap's opening diameter affects flow rate and consumer experience. Brands should work with their packaging supplier to select a spout and cap system that meets both functional and regulatory requirements. Digital printing allows for quick iteration of artwork and regulatory text on the pouch.
Testing and certification
Compliance with EN 17665 is demonstrated through testing. The standard requires that the cap remains attached after a specified number of open-close cycles. It also includes tests for tensile strength and resistance to separation. Testing should be performed on the final packaging format, not just the cap component, because the interaction between the cap and spout can affect performance. Brands should obtain test reports from their packaging supplier or an accredited laboratory. These reports should reference EN 17665 and include the specific test methods and results.
Clover Packaging works with BRC-certified factories in Foshan, China. Certifications belong to the manufacturing partner, not Clover. We can provide stock pouch samples free of charge; customers pay courier costs only. For tethered cap spout pouches, tooling and testing may be required. Lead times for digital print runs are 10-15 working days after artwork approval; rotogravure runs take 20-25 working days. Minimum order quantities start from 100 pcs for pouches with digital printing, and from 10,000 pcs with rotogravure.
Common mistakes to avoid
One common mistake is assuming that any tethered cap will comply. The tether must pass EN 17665 tests for the specific pouch format. Another mistake is neglecting the filling process: the cap must remain attached after filling, sealing, and any retort or pasteurisation. Brands should also check that the tether does not interfere with the spout's ability to be sealed or with the pouch's barrier properties. Finally, some brands overlook the deadline and continue using non-compliant caps. With the August 2026 deadline approaching, early planning is essential.
Another error is choosing a cap material that is not compatible with the pouch's recycling stream. For example, a PP cap on a PE pouch may complicate recycling. Mono-material solutions can help. Brands should also consider the cap's size and shape for consumer handling. A cap that is too small may be difficult to grip; one that is too large may add cost. Testing with actual consumers can identify issues before full production.
Planning for compliance
To prepare for the PPWR tethered cap rules, start by reviewing your current spout pouch packaging. Identify whether it falls under the regulation. If it does, assess your options: you can switch to a tethered cap spout, or change to a different packaging format that is not covered. For many liquid food brands, the tethered cap spout is the most practical route. Engage your packaging supplier early to discuss design, materials, and testing. Allow time for tooling and trials. The August 2026 deadline may seem distant, but development and testing can take months.
Clover Packaging supplies spout pouches with options for corner spout and STANDCAP. We offer add-ons such as one-way degassing valves, zippers, tear notches, windows, carry handles, and hang holes. Printing methods include rotogravure up to 10 colours, digital, and flexographic. If you need tethered cap spout pouches, contact us with your specifications. We will reply within 24 working hours with unit price, MOQ, lead time, and shipping terms.